ELDERLY residents enjoyed a ‘glitzy’ mini Creamfields on Monday after a ‘leap of faith’ from organisers.

Creamfields’ volunteer charity partner 10,000 hours hosted Cream’T’fields at St John’s Parish Hall in Higher Walton, adjacent to the Creamfields site, in partnership with Hatton Parish Council, Walton Parish Council and Warrington Borough Council’s (WBC) south neighbourhood team.

The afternoon tea provided retirees with an opportunity to socialise and discover the various activities taking place in their area.

Although far calmer than Creamfields is set to be this weekend, the free event featured a range of entertainment including musical bingo and line dancing taster sessions.

Young volunteers were on hand to act as hosts and hostesses for the day, providing alcohol-free cocktails and serving tasty cream teas.

Cllr Margaret Winstanley, chair of Hatton Parish Council, hailed the 'synergy' between the organisers.

Barbara Parratt, WBC's south neighbourhood manager, echoed her views.

She said: "It was a glitzy event but was also very engaging and allowed us to speak to residents about what is going on to build strong resilient communities.

"It was real partnership working. It required a leap of faith for everyone to go for it.

"A priority for the council is volunteering – we want strong, vibrant communities.

"We have young volunteers, who make a real difference, but it also enhances their CVs and employability.

"It is also about making sure we have things going on locally to increase the wellbeing of people.

"This event is a springboard for me to be able to do that.

"It is nice when a plan comes together."

Cllr Tony Higgins, executive board member for leisure and community, said: "Working in partnership with the 10,000 hours initiative, which delivers volunteers in exchange for free music festival tickets, and in collaboration with Walton and Hatton parish councils, as well as the south neighbourhoods team, residents from across Warrington were able to enjoy an afternoon tea supported by these young volunteers.

"I want to offer my thanks to all involved and praise their hard work in making this event a huge success."

A total of 86 residents attended.

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