After two years of planning, a local members club has hosted its first Vintage Tea Dance to help combat loneliness and isolation among older people.
The event was the result of a conversation in 2021 between Cllr Colleen Atkins and the owner of 3 St Peter’s Private Members Club, Poonam Chand.
Cllr Atkins shared her concern that many older people have been left feeling isolated as a result of the lockdown and suggested to Poonam that a tea dance would be a good way of bringing people together.
Poonam didn’t forget that conversation, and fast-forward two years and over 30 older people attended the first Vintage Tea Dance held at 3 St Peters.
Residents from Waterloo House, Aspley Court and The Limes enjoyed an afternoon listening to Jazz the 2 of Us over a delicious cream tea, followed by many taking to the dance floor, laughing, chatting and having a good time.
One man recalled the tea dances at the Corn Exchange that were once a regular event many years ago, and said he had enjoyed himself tremendously, especially having the opportunity to dance.
The event was so successful that Poonam and Colleen are already in discussions about future Vintage Tea Dances.
“It was such an enormous pleasure to host the vintage tea dance at 3 St Peter’s,” said Poonam.
“Each of us in the 3 St Peter’s team gave our utmost to make the day special for our valued guests. I’m grateful to Colleen for her lovely idea and for our MP and Colleen for attending, and thank you to Jazz The 2 of Us for their perfect performance.”
Cllr Atkins said: “It was so rewarding seeing people enjoying themselves.
:I’m pleased that a conversation two years ago has come to fruition and I’m really grateful to Poonam for arranging this very special event. It was a lovely, friendly atmosphere and I’m really looking forward to the next one.”
