A COMMUNITY tea and dancing event in Thelwall has been hailed a huge success in bridging the gap between old and young people.

Featuring dancing, music, tea and cake, the event put a smile on the face of everyone in attendance at Thelwall Junior School and plans are under way to make it a regular occurrence.

The dance was organised by Diane Taylor and Clare Freaney, volunteer members of the school’s Parent Teacher Association, and Diane said it was great to see both old and young come together.

“With the event, we wanted to do something which would bring the community together,” she said.

“We also wanted to combat isolation in older people by opening the doors to local care homes and getting them socialising.

“I know this can be a real issue for the elderly so anything we can do to prevent it is something we are keen to do.

“It was also to benefit the children by bridging the gap with some of the older members of our community.”

And it was clear to see just how much everyone enjoyed the event with music being played from both generations, and different dances to match.

Pupils were learning how to waltz from the elderly attendees, who were then given a masterclass in flossing in return.

The dance was such a success that it is set to become a regular fixture in the school calendar.

“We are hoping to make it a community event which will happen on a regular basis, possibly once every month or once a term” continued Diane.

“Before the event, we weren’t quite sure how many people would turn up but now we can say it was a massive success."

Tesco and Co-op donated some cakes for the dance and David Keane, Cheshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, has said he will allocate some money to fund it in the future.”

Mr Keane, a Penketh and Cuerdley councillor, was at the event and praised the effect it had on both old and young.

“My job sees me out and about and visiting events and groups like this in communities all over Cheshire, and what an experience this is for everyone involved,” he said.

“It’s wonderful to see everyone come together and have fun, which is also helping older people overcome issues such as loneliness and isolation.

“On average, there is an 80-year age gap between the youngest and oldest here and for them to share an afternoon together is great to see.

“Everyone in the room is having a great time and it costs only pennies, teabags and cake and most of that is either donated or homemade.”