Category: Uncategorized

Introduction

Purton & District Age Concern is pleased to present its report to the Annual Parish Council Meeting, outlining our activities during 2025 and the continued role we play in promoting community wellbeing across Purton and the surrounding district.

As a self-funded charity, our primary aim remains supporting older residents by reducing isolation, encouraging social interaction, and fostering a strong sense of community spirit.

Overview of 2025

Despite wider global challenges during the year, 2025 has been an extremely positive and successful year for Purton & District Age Concern.

We have seen exceptional attendance and engagement across all our organised events, exceeding expectations and demonstrating the strength of local support for our group.

Our programme of activities throughout 2025 included:

• Burns Night
• Two highly successful 3B’s Evenings
• Wine Tasting Evening
• Community Coffee Morning
• Coach Outings
• Ongoing minibus services supporting residents

These events not only provide entertainment and social opportunities but also play a vital role in promoting the organisation, attracting new members, and raising funds to sustain our services.

Launch of the Chatter Club

One of the highlights of 2025 was the launch of our Chatter Club, held on the first Wednesday of each month at The Red House.

This initiative has grown steadily throughout the year and has become a welcoming, informal space offering:

• Free tea, coffee, and cake
• A warm and friendly environment
• Opportunities for conversation and companionship

The Chatter Club directly supports our mission of reducing loneliness and strengthening community connections.

Community Support and Christmas Provision

Thanks to the continued support of our members, volunteers, street wardens, committee, and event attendees, we were once again able to provide Christmas vouchers to eligible residents in 2025.

We also organised subsidised festive activities to ensure that the Christmas period remained inclusive and community-focused, including:

Christmas Parties

Carols Under the Tree, supported by Lock Down Brass & Friends, with free mince pies and mulled wine.

These events help bring the whole community together and reinforce the group’s visible presence within the parish.

Promotion and Community Engagement

Throughout 2025, the club has actively promoted its activities through:

• Regular newsletters
• Word-of-mouth via our Street Wardens
• Community events
• Parish connections
• Our website and mailing list

Our Street Warden network continues to play a vital role as the first point of contact for residents, ensuring support and information are readily accessible.

Volunteers and Partnerships

We extend sincere thanks to:

• Our dedicated Committee
• Street Wardens
• The Minibus Committee and volunteer drivers
• Event organisers and helpers

Their commitment ensures the continued success and sustainability of this self-funded organisation, which remains a valued and respected asset within Purton and neighbouring areas.

We also signpost residents to relevant external services such as Age UK, Citizens Advice, Wiltshire Council, and other local support organisations where appropriate.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Planning is already underway for a full programme of events in 2026, including:

• Burns Night (January)
• 3B’s Evenings (March and October)
• Coffee Morning (July)
• Coach Trips from June to November
• Continuation of Chatter Club

We anticipate another busy and productive year and look forward to continuing to work alongside the Parish Council to support the wellbeing of our older residents.

Conclusion

2025 has been a year of growth, strong attendance, and community spirit for Purton & District Age Concern. The continued enthusiasm of our supporters demonstrates the importance of maintaining social opportunities and practical support within our parish.

We remain committed to promoting inclusion, companionship, and community engagement in the year ahead.

 

2026 Coach Trips

So far, we have booked two trips for 2026. The first will take place on Wednesday 20 May, and the second on Wednesday 24 June.

The May trip will be a scenic drive through the countryside (full details to follow), including a two-course lunch. The cost will be £30 per person, or £32 for those under 65 or living outside the village.

Our June trip will be a steam train journey in South Wales, costing £32 per person (£34). Please note that you will need to bring a packed lunch, as there is only a limited café area available.

Places for either 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.

Age Wiltshire Events

Age Wiltshire organise various events throughout the year, held either in Purton Village Hall or the Memorial Hall in Royal Wootton Bassett. These events are always enjoyable and well attended, particularly by Purton residents, which is great to see.

Attendance is free, although a donation bucket is available for anyone who wishes to contribute.

The most recent event took place on 24 February at the Village Hall, when the Bob Heath Trio entertained us with music from the 1950s and 1960s, along with audience requests (when they knew the words!). They were a lively and humorous band and provided a wonderful afternoon of music. Tea, coffee and cakes are always provided.

Keep an eye out for future dates. Our minibus can also be arranged for anyone who needs transport.

First Aid Evening

We were very grateful to Mark Hussey from St John Ambulance for coming along to our meeting on 4 March at the Methodist Church. He delivered a very useful first aid session for members of the main committee and drivers and “shotguns” from the minibus group who were interested in attending.

The evening covered basic first aid practices, including resuscitation techniques and controlling bleeding, and also included a demonstration on how to use a defibrillator.

Mark kindly brought along training dummies so that everyone could try resuscitation techniques, as well as demonstration defibrillators. It proved to be a very informative and practical session.

With more defibrillators being installed in public places, it is reassuring to know that modern machines now talk the user through the process step by step, making them much easier for anyone to use in an emergency.

Chatter Club Continues

Our Chatter Club continues to grow, and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back on Wednesday 1st April 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 or cards, enjoy tea or coffee, and of course sample some cake — all completely free.

If you require minibus transport, please book with Hazel on 01793 770862.

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. There will be our usual stalls, so all budding gardeners and bakers should start preparing now! We will be asking for plant and cake donations to help make it a wonderful day while raising funds for Purton & District Age Concern.

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 Millennium 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.

Call for Volunteers

If you are interested in becoming a committee member or helping regularly at our events, please contact our secretary at secretary@purtonageconcern.com to find out more.

Stay Connected

Do not forget to follow us on social media and join our mailing list to keep up to date with events, news, and fundraising activities. Email secretary@purtonageconcern.com to be added.

 

Together, we keep Purton thriving — thank you for all your support!

 

Peter Berry

Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern

Burns Night celebrations 24^th January

We rate this event as our busiest with preparations starting at 1pm on the day and finishing around 11pm, but what an atmosphere! Our piper Simon greets guests at the door with a medley of tunes and once we are seated then the evening begins. A three-course dinner which is prepared on site by committee members and helpers is served once we have dispensed with the official side of piping in the haggis, addressing the haggis and then toasting the haggis with a “wee dram”.

We received such good feedback about the quality of the food so congratulations to the kitchen staff on their enormous efforts.

The “ceilidh” follows and this time so many people were up and dancing to the music with Sarah explaining the dance moves and then most people getting it wrong! All part of the evening entertainment. A raffle and a game of “heads & tails” at half time completed the evening.

All of us exhausted by the end, as we must clear up all the decorations and tables before leaving, but happy with the comments from so many as to how much they enjoyed themselves.

3B’s – Bangers, Beans & Bingo

Our first 3B’s evening of the year will take place on 27th March, it is sold out I’m afraid but may be worth a call to Andrew on 01793 956095 just in case of any cancellations.

This popular evening includes a hearty meal of sausages, jacket potato and beans, followed by a selection of desserts — all included in the ticket price. Add in a raffle and some cash bingo prizes, and you’re guaranteed a fun and sociable night out.

Chatter Club Continues

Our Chatter Club continues to grow, and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back on Wednesday 4th March at The Red House. Sessions are held on the first Wednesday of every month, offering a warm and welcoming space to chat, play pool or cards, enjoy tea or coffee, and of course, tuck into some cake — all completely free.

We meet from 11.30am to 2pm. If you require minibus transport, please book with Hazel on 770862. We realise that this meeting clashes with the Lent lunches so the minibus might be stretched to pick everybody up.

Wiltshire Connect – Free Transport to Hospital with bus pass

Need help getting to hospital appointments? Wiltshire Connect is a new FREE transport service if you have a bus pass that has been set up by Wiltshire Council. Fares are very reasonable for people without a bus pass, so all ages are catered for. They will collect you as locally as possible or if you have mobility problems from your home and take you for example to GWH. There are lots of other places you can get to if you access their route options even for social trips or shopping. You can book up to a week in advance by calling 01225 712900. A great option for those without transport.

Swindon WOW (What’s On When)

Swindon WOW is a guide produced by a company called Home Instead. It is a directory of the activities in the local area suitable for older people in general including those groups specifically living with dementia. For enquiries phone 01793 234439 or email cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk There are lots of activities in the local areas. You can access the on our ‘useful links’ page.

National Priority Services Register

We thought we’d let you know about the National Priority Services Register which provides support and advice when there is an interruption to your electricity, gas, or water supply.

This is FREE to join for over 60s and if you have a power cut, for example, you will automatically be contacted with updates on what has happened and when it is likely to be fixed. This register also gives you priority access to emergency supplies for example and bottles of water if your water supply is going to be off for a long period of time.

It is VERY easy to join via the link below or if you would prefer, you can call them on 0800 294 3259.

Type in: www.thepsr.co.uk on your search engine, this is a free UK wide service which provides extra advice and support, including when there’s an interruption to your electricity or gas supply. If anyone needs any help with the registration process, please do let us know. You can contact our committee member Emma Wheeler on 07496 809035 for help. 

Tai Chi for Health and Wellness

Our Tai Chi classes continue Thursdays at 1.30pm (term-time only) at the Millennium Hall. This gentle exercise is known to be beneficial for balance, wellbeing, and even conditions like Parkinson’s Disease. First-timers get a FREE taster session; subsequent sessions cost £7. No need to book, just come along! For more info, contact Graham on 07950 510420.

Wiltshire Bobby Van

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust is still operational, providing home security checks and installing smoke/fire detectors — all FREE. Visit www.wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk or call 01225 256867 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) to book a visit.

Could We Support Your Group?

If you are involved in a local group or club that supports older residents and needs a bit of funding, we would love to hear from you. Email secretary@purtonageconcern.com with details of your project and we will see how we can help.

Are You 65+ and Living in Purton?

If so, and you have never heard from us before, please reach out. We want to make sure all qualifying residents are aware of the support we offer, including who your street warden is. Contact Georgina on 07966 222967 or email secretary@purtonageconcern.com.

Need Transport?

If you are over 60 and need help getting to the surgery or a shopping trip, call Hazel on 01793 770862 to arrange a seat on the Purton & District Age Concern minibus.

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 if needed.

Pheonix Transport

Please remember that Pheonix is no longer free with your bus pass. To book, call 01249 890794, and be aware that you will now need to pay for the service.

Stay Connected

Do not forget to follow us on social media and join our mailing list to keep up to date with events, news, and fundraising. To be added, email secretary@purtonageconcern.com

Together, we keep Purton thriving — thank you for all your support!

Peter Berry

Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern

🎄 Carols by the Christmas Tree

What a wonderful way to spend Christmas Eve! Our annual carol singing at The Red House was once again a huge success. We were delighted to be accompanied by Mark Blackwell and his fantastic Lockdown Brass Band, who kindly support us every year. With plenty of voices raised in song, along with hot mince pies and mulled wine to keep everyone warm, it was a truly joyful evening.

Although it was a little chilly, the dry weather meant nothing dampened the festive spirit. The Red House was absolutely buzzing by the end of the night — great for the atmosphere and no doubt good for trade too!

🎁 Christmas Vouchers

We hope you enjoyed using your Christmas Vouchers and treated yourself to something special. We issued over 800 vouchers and this year, for the first time, they could also be used as a subscription to the Purton Magazine. The magazine is packed with news from local clubs, details of village events, and advertising from our wonderful local businesses.

I’m often asked for recommendations for local tradespeople, and the magazine is always my first port of call — we’re very lucky to have so many skilled professionals right here in the village. The more people who read the magazine, the more our events and community activities get seen too.

🥘 3B’s – Bangers, Beans & Bingo

Our first 3B’s evening of the year will take place on 27th March, so be sure to book your tickets early! Please contact Andrew on 01793 956095 to reserve your place.

This popular evening includes a hearty meal of sausages, jacket potato and beans, followed by a selection of desserts — all included in the ticket price. Add in a raffle and some cash bingo prizes, and you’re guaranteed a fun and sociable night out.

☕ Chatter Club Continues

Our Chatter Club continues to grow, and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back on Wednesday 4th February at The Red House. Sessions are held on the first Wednesday of every month, offering a warm and welcoming space to chat, play pool or cards, enjoy tea or coffee, and of course, tuck into some cake — all completely free.

We meet from 11.30am to 2pm. If you require minibus transport, please book with Hazel on 770862.

Together, we keep Purton thriving — thank you for all your support!

Peter Berry
Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern

Christmas Vouchers

The Christmas Vouchers will be distributed by your street warden for you to use from the 1^st December at supporting outlets in and around the village. So, if you are 65 or over and don’t receive a £10 voucher now contact Georgina on 07966 222967 or email secretary@purtonageconcern.com to be included NEXT year. We can afford the cost of the vouchers again due to our fundraising efforts throughout the year. Our funds are generated within the village with no outside support. Our thanks go to all the people that support our events, without these the vouchers would not be possible.

Christmas Party Time – 6 December 2025 (3.00pm-6.30pm)

Once again as Christmas draws closer and we start planning our festivities. Through email, posters, the magazine, and social media we have invited our qualifying residents to join us for an afternoon of entertainment and Christmas celebration. If you are quick, and you would like to attend, please call Georgina on 07966222967 to book your place.  £8.00 per person.  As usual street wardens and minibus crew are invited to attend free of charge.

Christmas Eve Carols – 6pm

Once again you are invited to join us at The Red House on Christmas Eve for our annual carol singing, supported by Lockdown Brass & Friends.  We will be kicking of at 6pm.  Wrap up warm and coming along to kick off your Christmas.  Everyone is welcome and there will be free mince pies and mulled wine for those who sing the loudest!

Burns Night Celebration – Saturday 24^th January 2026

This event has always been popular so make sure you book early.  If you would like to attend, please call Andrew on 01793 956095 to reserve your ticket. As usual there will be a 3-course supper and ceilidh all for £26 per person. Come along and give our fundraising events for 2026 a great start all while having a lovely evening of good company, food and dancing.

Chatter Club continues

We will be holding our next Chatter Club on Wednesday 3^rd December, looking forward to seeing our growing group of residents at The Red House which will continue to host the club on the first Wednesday of every month.  Offering a warm space for chatting, playing pool or cards, sipping tea or coffee, and enjoying cake — all free of charge. Join us from 11.30am to 2pm. If you need minibus transport, please book via Hazel on 770862.

Wiltshire Connect – Free Transport to Hospital

Need help getting to hospital appointments? Wiltshire Connect is a new FREE transport service set up by Wiltshire Council. They will collect you from your home and take you to GWH. You can book up to a week in advance by calling 01225 712900. A great option for those without transport.

Swindon WOW (What’s On When)

Swindon WOW is a guide produced by a company called Home Instead. It is a directory of the activities in the local area suitable for older people in general including those groups specifically living with dementia. For enquiries phone 01793 234439 or email cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk There are lots of activities in the local areas.

Tai Chi for Health and Wellness

Our Tai Chi classes continue Thursdays at 1.30pm (term-time only) at the Millennium Hall. This gentle exercise is known to be beneficial for balance, wellbeing, and even conditions like Parkinson’s Disease. First-timers get a FREE taster session; subsequent sessions cost £7. No need to book, just come along! For more info, contact Graham on 07950 510420.

Could We Support Your Group?

If you are involved in a local group or club that supports older residents and needs a bit of funding, we would love to hear from you. Email secretary@purtonageconcern.com with details of your project and we will see how we can help.

Need Transport?

If you are over 60 and need help getting to the surgery or a shopping trip, call Hazel on 01793 770862 to arrange a seat on the Purton & District Age Concern minibus.

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 if needed.

Stay Connected

Do not forget to follow us on social media and join our mailing list to keep up to date with events, news, and fundraising. To be added, email secretary@purtonageconcern.com

Together, we keep Purton thriving — thank you for all your support!

Peter Berry – Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern

 

3B’s 3^rd October

Another full house for this very popular event that is always a joy to produce. There is nothing like the atmosphere at our events and this one was just as good as any we have had in the past. It’s thanks to all of you who turned up with the intention of having a good time and it’s thanks to Rich for calling the numbers and the rest of the committee for producing the food and running the whole evening. The next one will be in March next year so look out for the details in the magazine or online.

Trip to Otter garden centre

This was a new venue for us and one that I hoped would appeal to most of the people who travel with us on our trips. I was not disappointed as everyone really enjoyed the day out. The garden centre is a real gem with ample parking, an exceptional array of plants and a restaurant with a lovely selection of lunches and cakes. The whole place is clean and bright and the staff very helpful and pleasant. The consensus was that we should visit this one again in the future.

Christmas Shopping Trip – 26^th November 2025

Yes, it’s getting to that time of the year! We will be returning to Cardiff for a Christmas shopping trip. The coach will be leaving the village at the normal time of 10am and the cost will be £20pp (£22 for people outside the village). Ring Peter on 778119 for a seat, it’s a lovely place to shop or just window shop.

Christmas Party Time – 6 December 2025 (3.00pm-6.30pm)

Once again as Christmas draws closer and we start planning our festivities, we will be inviting our qualifying residents to join us for an afternoon of entertainment and Christmas celebration.  You’ve probably already noticed our posters about the village or on our social media.  If you would like to attend, please call Jean on 01793 771304 to book your place.  £8.00 per person.  As usual street wardens and minibus crew are invited to attend free of charge.

Burns Night Celebration – Saturday 24^th January 2026

As this event is always a popular one, we have decided to start selling tickets earlier this year.  If you would like to attend, please call Andrew on 01793 956095 to reserve your ticket. As usual there will be a 3-course supper and ceilidh all for £26 per person.

Chatter Club continues

We will be holding our next Chatter Club on Wednesday 5^th November, looking forward to seeing our growing group of residents at The Red House which will continue to host the club on the first Wednesday of every month.  Offering a warm space for chatting, playing pool or cards, sipping tea or coffee, and enjoying cake — all free of charge. Join us from 11.30am to 2pm. If you need minibus transport, please book via Hazel on 770862.

The November meeting will include a taster session and brief talk from a representative of Wiltshire Farm Foods, so if you haven’t been before and fancy trying some of their main courses and desserts come along on the day at the usual time of 11.30.

Stay Connected

Do not forget to follow us on social media and join our mailing list to keep up to date with events, news, and fundraising. To be added, email secretary@purtonageconcern.com

Together, we keep Purton thriving — thank you for all your support!

Peter Berry
Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern

Coach trip to Weston in August

Our once-a-year trip to Weston-Super-Mare went ahead on August 27^th and we managed to get over 40 people on board for the day. The wet weather was coming in from the West and passed over us on the way down, leaving a lovely clear, bright, and sunny day for us to enjoy. The sea was almost visible which is high tide down there! Everyone had good feedback and they all got back to the coach on time for us to leave as arranged. Thanks to Tim our driver from Ellisons who looked after us and thanks to all the people that made such a nice day happen.

Christmas Shopping Trip – 26^th November 2025

Yes, it’s getting to that time of the year! We will be returning to Cardiff for a Christmas shopping trip. The coach will be leaving the village at the normal time of 10am and the cost will be £20pp (£22 for people outside the village). Ring Peter on 778119 for a seat, it’s a lovely place to shop or just window shop.

Burns Night Celebration – Saturday 24^th January 2026

As this event is always a popular one, we have decided to start selling tickets earlier this year.  Publicity posters will be circulated over the next few weeks but if you would like to attend, please call Andrew on 01793 956095 to reserve your ticket. As usual there will be a 3-course supper and ceilidh, all for £26 per person.

Chatter Club continues

We will be holding our next Chatter Club on Wednesday 1^st October, looking forward to seeing our growing group of residents at The Red House which will continue to host the club on the first Wednesday of every month.  Offering a warm space for chatting, playing pool or cards, sipping tea or coffee, and enjoying cake — all free of charge. Join us from 11.30am to 2pm. If you need minibus transport, please book via Hazel on 770862.

The November meeting will include a taster session and brief talk from a representative of Wiltshire Farm Foods, so if you haven’t been before and fancy trying some of their main courses and desserts come along on the 5^th November at the usual time of 11.30.

Event for carers – Saturday 11^th October 2025

There will be an event at the Village Hall on 11^th October, from 10am-1pm called Carers Community Event which is designed for people who are caring for someone and are seeking advice. Purton & District Age Concern will be represented there, and we would love to see anybody that wants to know what we do in the village and how we can help.

Swindon WOW (What’s On When)

Swindon WOW is a guide produced by a company called Home Instead. It is a directory of the activities in the local area suitable for older people in general including those groups specifically living with dementia. For enquiries phone 01793 234439 or email cat.attewell@homeinsteadswindon.co.uk There are lots of activities in the local areas.

Tai Chi for Health and Wellness

Our Tai Chi classes continue Thursdays at 1.30pm (term-time only) at the Millennium Hall. This gentle exercise is known to be beneficial for balance, wellbeing, and even conditions like Parkinson’s Disease. First-timers get a FREE taster session; subsequent sessions cost £7. No need to book, just come along! For more info, contact Graham on 07950 510420.

Wiltshire Bobby Van

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust is still operational, providing home security checks and installing smoke/fire detectors — all FREE. Visit www.wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk or call 01225 256867 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) to book a visit.

They are also offering ‘Ring’ Doorbell installations which allow the homeowner to see who is at their door. It is essential that you have a smart phone with the appropriate software and internet connections. We know that a lot of people do not have this equipment but for those that do and are interested in discussing further you can contact them on 01225 256867 or email BobbyVan@wbvt.org for details.

Could We Support Your Group?

If you are involved in a local group or club that supports older residents and needs a bit of funding, we would love to hear from you. Email secretary@purtonageconcern.com with details of your project and we will see how we can help.

Are You 65+ and Living in Purton?

If so, and you have never heard from us before, please reach out. We want to make sure all qualifying residents are aware of the support we offer, including who your street warden is. Contact Georgina on 07966 222967 or email secretary@purtonageconcern.com.

Need Transport?

If you are over 60 and need help getting to the surgery or a shopping trip, call Hazel on 01793 770862 to arrange a seat on the Purton & District Age Concern minibus.

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 if needed.

Stay Connected

Do not forget to follow us on social media and join our mailing list to keep up to date with events, news, and fundraising. To be added, email secretary@purtonageconcern.com

 

Together, we keep Purton thriving — thank you for all your support!

Peter Berry – Chairman, Purton & District Age Concern

Purton and District Age Concern (PADAC): Celebrating 60 Years of Community Support

Purton and District Age Concern (PADAC) is a dedicated organisation serving older residents aged 65 and over in and around Purton village. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for our community’s older members by offering a wide range of services designed to support their independence, wellbeing, and social connections.

We have a team of street wardens who regularly check in on residents, ensuring they are safe and encouraging social interaction. Our minibus service provides transport to local events, the community café, doctor’s appointments, coffee mornings, and more. In addition, we offer Tai Chi classes at heavily subsidised rates and host free coffee and cake mornings to promote socialising and relaxation.

Education is also a key part of our work. We help older people understand who they can trust and raise awareness about potential scams or unsafe situations.

What makes PADAC special is that it is entirely run by volunteers — no one receives payment. Our activities and services are funded solely through fundraising events and donations.

As vice chairman of the committee, I am actively involved in our fundraising efforts. One of our popular events is the “3B’s” — Bangers, Beans and Bingo. For a ticket price of £15, attendees enjoy a two-course meal and six bingo cards. These events are well attended, with around 90 people coming each time. Preparing meals for such numbers is no small task: cooking 100 baked potatoes, 24 tins of beans, 200 sausages, alongside delicious puddings requires a lot of hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

Our biggest annual fundraiser is Burns Night, which attracts around 100 guests for a three-course dinner, whisky, and dancing. The preparation for this event is especially demanding — from peeling 25kg of swede and potatoes to cooking and organising the evening — but the sense of community and enjoyment makes it all worthwhile.

I enjoy the kitchen side of things, but we also have the more creative members setting up the rooms for the events.  The Burns Night decorations, always looks amazing.

On average, I dedicate 1 to 2 full days and one evening each month to meetings, planning, and preparation. Beyond the regular committee volunteers, many other friends and helpers contribute by supporting events, serving food, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

I love volunteering for PADAC because I have made new friends that I wouldn’t normally meet in my everyday life.  PADAC is an essential part of my life, and I am proud to be part of a team that makes such a positive difference.

Laura Phillips
Vice Chair

 

Cardiff Bay boat trip

Is now fully booked, which is great, thank you all for showing such interest, it makes us feel good when our events are so well attended. For those coming please make sure you put the right date on your calendar as it is Tuesday 24^th June. I have a small waiting list so if you haven’t booked the best we can offer is any cancellations we might get.

Our trips are intended for people of pensionable age and a friend or carer, if necessary. Occasionally we may open the trips for the general public if we need to fill the spaces. Village connections are a must.

Wine Tasting evening 13^th June

There are still some tickets available for this very indulgent evening, who wouldn’t want to try different wines and snacks and learn something about where and how these wines are produced. The event will be hosted by Magnum Wine Shop in Swindon. Tickets are still available at £23 per person and can be booked by emailing events@purtonageconcern.com or calling Georgina on 07966 222967.

Coffee Morning

Our annual coffee morning at Dick & Jackie Scott’s garden on the farm at Bentham is on the 5^th July and is a £2 entry for tea/coffee and biscuits on the gate. There will be cakes to buy, tombola, raffle and lots of sun (we hope) in this idyllic surrounding. The minibus will be available if needed. More details in the next magazine.

Chatter Club

We ran the first of these on Wednesday 7^th May and after a slow start we had about 25 people turn up and by the reactions they will be telling other people what a nice time they had.  We have made arrangements for Chris at the Red House to host our Chatter Club on the first Wednesday of each month giving people the opportunity to get together for a chat, play pool, cards, bridge, along with a coffee or tea and some cake, perhaps even a roll up on the bowls green all for FREE between 11.30am-2pm so keep in mind the 4^th June. We hope to see you there! The minibus will be available for those who need it – remember to book your seat with Hazel.

Let us know

We are always looking for ways to support the older residents in Purton and sometimes it’s very difficult to ensure that we include everybody.
If you are part of a club or group in the village and have a project that specifically focuses on our older residents, but you could do with a little bit of help with the funding, send us a message including details all about your project to secretary@purtonageconcern.com and we’ll see if we can help. 

Pancreatic Cancer awareness event

What a great event was organised by a group of people from this village to raise funds to help towards finding treatments for this very serious cancer. It was held at the Red House starting with raffle sales the week before and at 11am on Saturday 10^th May with a darts competition then food from 1pm, lots of things for children to do, a tombola with amazing prizes and at 7pm an auction with donations from companies, restaurants, traders and individuals that was frenetic from the start. I hope that they have made plenty of money for this worthwhile cause, and congratulations to the team that organised it so professionally, what a village we live in.

Dementia Adventure

This is something that came to light when a couple (one with dementia) went on one of these holidays recently and couldn’t wait to tell me about it. It is a small group, only 8 people and with four carers felt very safe. They asked about being picked up, and they were – from their front door.

The itinerary was as follows:

Staying at Tre-Vern, Llangarron, Ross-On-Wye, HR9 6PQ. Monday: Meet and greet at Pengethley Garden Centre. Peterstow, Ross-On-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 6LL.
Tuesday: Dean Heritage Centre Museum & grounds. Then in the afternoon enjoy a Falconry handling experience onsite back for dinner at the accommodation.
Wednesday: Breakfast at the accommodation then drive to Norchard station for a steam train ride (about 85 minutes). On board the train will be treated to a delicious picnic.
Back to Norchard Station, drive to Ross Cider for a tour of the farm and press , followed by a tasting that includes non-alcoholic options. Return to the accommodation, have a cooked meal with the group, followed by a sing-a-long session with Helen from Singplicity.
Thursday: After breakfast drive down the Wye Valley to board a boat for a cruise along the river Wye. Go to Old Ferrie Inn for lunch. 
After lunch drive to Symonds Yat Rock for coffee and cake in the cafe and walk up to the viewpoint.
Dinner at the accommodation before a performance from the Got2Sing choir.
Friday: Breakfast at the accommodation before checking out at 10a.m. Coffee and cake at Goodrich castle.

If you would like more information about these holidays then send an email to info@dementiaadventure.co.uk or call 01245 237548 for details. There is a website which is www.dementiaadventure.org

Smoke and fire detectors

Did you know that there is a free check by the fire service for anyone over 65 to replace/install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors? If you or any of your neighbours/family are interested the link is below. 

What is Safe and Well?

Tai Chi classes

The Tai-Chi classes continue to run weekly (term time only) at 1.30pm on Thursdays at the Millennium Hall.  Come along and enjoy the benefits of this gentle exercise.  Apparently one of the best exercises for Parkinsons Disease is said to be Tai Chi.  Anyone is welcome to join the group.  There is a FREE taster session for all first timers.  New members will have to fill in a health form at the first lesson.  Cost is £7.00 per session.  If you have any questions, please contact Graham on 07950 510420.

Qualifying residents

Are you 65 or over and live in the Purton Area?  Do you know who your street warden is?  We try to maintain an up-to-date list of the ‘qualifying’ residents but it’s not always possible to keep up with all the changes.  If you answer ‘yes’ to the two questions but have never received any communication from Purton & District Age Concern please contact Georgina, our secretary, to find out what services we offer and who the street warden is for your patch. Email: secretary@purtonageconcern.com or call 07966 222967.

Minibus

If you need to use the Purton & District Age Concern transport for surgery appointments or to go on one of our shopping trips, and are over 60 years of age, then please contact Hazel on 01793 770862 as usual.

Useful contacts

If you have a problem or need to speak to anyone on any other topic, then your first port of call should be your street warden.  Failing that other contacts are Peter Berry from Purton & District Age Concern on 01793 778119 or Debbie Lawrence, Clerk of the Parish Council, on 01793 771066. Remember that Purton is a very special village and there is always somebody that can help and will help.

Wheelchairs etc

We have a couple of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and walking sticks, so if you think you might need to borrow any of these at any time then you can contact Peter on 01793 778119 or email secretary@purtonageconcern.com for details.

If you need it!

Bobby Van – This service has now ceased and you will have to phone 0800 038 2323 and you will be directed to Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service who will try and help you with battery or alarm replacements.

Pheonix – This is no longer a free transport service on your bus pass. You need to ring 01249 890794 to book with them. Remember that you now have to pay for this service.

Keep in touch

Why not check out our social media to keep up to date with our events and fund-raising.

If you would like to be added to our events mailing list, please drop us a note email: secretary@purtonageconcern.com

Peter Berry

Chairman

3B’s

We had our first Bangers, Beans & Bingo night on the 28^th March and what a great night it was.  The atmosphere was noisy & fun, which seems to be a Purton trait, as people catch up with their friends. Richard our caller always manages to rhyme each number called, often very funny and often full of inuendo! The food was delicious with locally sourced sausages, jacket potatoes and baked beans with cheese sprinkles and a variety of desserts which went to seconds for some people! We catered for 100 people and the kitchen staff worked so hard to get it ready ‘banger on time’. We will be running another one of these on 3^rd October so look out for the contact information in the magazine or online nearer the time.

First coach trip of 2025

We have organised a coach trip for Wednesday the 21^st May which will be a journey up to Great Malvern for some wonderful sightseeing then on to Birdwood near Gloucester for lunch and a different route back to Purton. The cost of £30 per head (£32 for non-qualifying residents & people living outside the village) will include lunch from a two-course menu. Ring Peter on 778119 to book. The pickup time will be 10am at all the usual places through the village.

Wine Tasting Fund Raiser

Back by popular demand, we are holding our second wine tasting event, hosted by Magnum Wine Shop on Friday 13 June in the Village Hall.  Tickets are now on sale at £23.00 per person.  This was a very popular event for us in 2023 so be sure to get your ticket requests in quickly so you don’t miss out.  The evening will involve sampling some fine wines and enjoying some light food accompaniments while learning all about the grapes, regions and wine making process.  If you are interested in attending this event, please email events@purtonageconcern.com or call Georgina on 07966 222967.

Cardiff Bay boat trip

We have booked a 50-seater boat for a 2-hour cruise around Cardiff Bay on the 24^th June which unusually is a Tuesday as I couldn’t get one for our regular Wednesday slot because of availability of coaches. So please make sure you put the right date on your calendar. This trip includes a fish & chip lunch on board and the cost is £40 per head (£42 for non-qualifying residents & people outside the village). The pickup time will be 10am at all the usual places through the village.

Our trips are intended for people of pensionable age and a friend or carer, if necessary. Occasionally we may open the trips for the general public if we need to fill the spaces. Village connections are a must.

Chatter Club

We are always trying to think of more ways to involve the wider population of our older residents in the events and trips we run.  We have therefore decided to trial a monthly Chatter Club in the hope that it will give more people the opportunity to get out and socialise with like-minded residents.  We have made arrangements for Chris at the Red House to host our Chatter Club on the first Wednesday of each month giving people the opportunity to get together for a chat, play pool, cards, bridge, along with a coffee or tea and some cake, perhaps even a roll up on the bowls green all for FREE between 11.30am-2pm so keep in mind the 7^th May.  It’s for our Purton residents 65 yrs + (Carers welcome too).

We hope to see you there! The minibus will be available for those who need it – remember to book your seat with Hazel.

Let us know

We are always looking for ways to support the older residents in Purton and sometimes it’s very difficult to ensure that we include everybody.
If you are part of a club or group in the village and have a project that specifically focuses on our older residents, but you could do with a little bit of help with the funding, send us a message including details all about your project to secretary@purtonageconcern.com and we’ll see if we can help. 

 

If you would like to be added to our events mailing list, please drop us a note email: secretary@purtonageconcern.com

Peter Berry – Chairman