2026 Coach Trips
Our steam train trip on the 24th June is now closed as we have no more seats available on the coach, thank you everyone for showing such interest in this trip, it should be great.
Our regular outing to Weston-Super-Mare will be on August 26th this year and the cost will be £20 per person or £22 for people who live outside the village.
Places for the Weston trip can be booked by calling Peter on 01793 778119. Further coach trips will be announced in future editions of the magazine once arrangements have been confirmed.
Village Event
The council are organising a village event on the 13th June which will be supported by local clubs in the village including us, there will be lots to do for all ages with music, food, free kids entertainment and the Rock Choir. Come along from 1pm until late. Support your local groups and sports facilities with football, tennis and a chance to play bowls on the bowls green.
Coffee Morning – 4 July
It may seem a little early, but please save the date for our annual coffee morning on 4 July in Bentham.
Once again, Dick and Jackie have kindly offered the use of their beautiful garden for the event. Any budding gardeners and bakers who can donate plants or cakes for this event please let us know. Help make it a wonderful day while raising funds for Purton & District Age Concern.
Chatter Club Continues
Our Chatter Club continues to grow, and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back on Wednesday 3rd June at The Red House.
We meet on the first Wednesday of every month from 11.30am to 2pm. It is a warm and welcoming space where people can chat, play pool, try their hand on the bowls green or play cards, enjoy tea or coffee, and of course sample some cake or biscuits — all completely free.
If you require minibus transport, please book with Hazel on 01793 770862.
Bath lifter mechanism
A subject that does concern a lot of older people with mobility problems and a phone call from Mary Hunt who lives in Upper Pavenhill might be the answer to the problem. She purchased a seat that lifts a person into and out of the bath and has volunteered to talk to anyone who might be having a problem in this area. She is happy to have people ring her on 01793 770477 as it has been a great asset to her. Thanks Mary, a great idea.
Can you help?
Purton & District Age Concern is a small, self-funded local charity run by a dedicated but very small committee, and while we’re proud to receive so many kind compliments about the events, support, and community we provide for older residents in Purton, we need your help to keep running these events. Without new committee members, the future of our charity—and the vital social connections and activities it provides—could be at risk. If you care about supporting older people in our community and can spare a little time, please consider joining our committee. Your skills, ideas, and enthusiasm could make all the difference in ensuring this much-loved charity continues to thrive for years to come.
Wiltshire Connect – Free Transport to Hospital with bus pass
If you need help getting to hospital appointments, Wiltshire Connect is a new transport service set up by Wiltshire Council. Travel is free for bus pass holders, and fares for those without a pass are very reasonable.
The service can collect you locally — or from your home if you have mobility difficulties — and take you to destinations such as Great Western Hospital. It can also be used for shopping or social trips depending on the route.
Bookings can be made up to a week in advance by calling 01225 712900.
Swindon WOW (What’s On When)
Swindon WOW is a useful guide produced by Home Instead, listing activities in the local area for older people, including those living with dementia.
For enquiries call 01793 234439 or email cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk. The guide can also be accessed via a link on our website.
National Priority Services Register
We would also like to remind residents about the National Priority Services Register, which provides support and advice if there is an interruption to your electricity, gas, or water supply.
It is free to join for anyone over 60. If there is a power cut, for example, you will automatically receive updates about the problem and when it is likely to be fixed. The service can also provide priority access to emergency supplies, such as bottled water if there is a prolonged interruption.
You can join online by visiting www.thepsr.co.uk, or by calling 0800 294 3259.
If you need help registering, please contact Emma Wheeler on 07496 809035.
Tai Chi for Health and Wellness
Our Tai Chi classes continue Thursdays at 1.30pm (term time only) at the new location which is now the Village Hall.
This gentle exercise can help improve balance, wellbeing, and mobility, and may be beneficial for people with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
Your first session is free, and thereafter classes cost £7. No booking is required — just come along.
For more information contact Graham on 07950 510420.
Wiltshire Bobby Van
The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust continues to provide free home security checks and install smoke and fire detectors for eligible residents.
To arrange a visit, call 01225 256867 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) or visit www.wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk
Could We Support Your Group?
If you are involved in a local group or club that supports older residents and requires some funding, we would be pleased to hear from you.
Please email secretary@purtonageconcern.com with details of your project.
Are You 65+ and Living in Purton?
If you are 65 or over and have never heard from us before, please get in touch. We want to make sure all eligible residents are aware of the support we offer, including information about your local street warden.
Contact Georgina on 07966 222967 or email secretary@purtonageconcern.com.
Need Transport?
If you are over 60 and need help getting to the doctor’s surgery or shops, you can arrange a seat on the Purton & District Age Concern minibus.
Please call Hazel on 01793 770862.
Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids
We have a small stock of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and walking sticks available for loan.
Contact Peter on 01793 778119 or email secretary@purtonageconcern.com.
Peter Berry
Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern
