Council launches first summer scheme for senior citizens

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has launched a new summer scheme for senior citizens, with activities planned across all seven District Electoral Areas. The events aim to give senior citizens the opportunity to improve their wellbeing, make new connections, boost their confidence and visit some hidden gems on their doorstep.

The Newry, Slieve Gullion and Crotlieve DEAs are organising a series of events between 29 June and 3 July, beginning in Silverbridge with dance, circus skills, Boccia and Botanical Bingo. On 30 June in Warrenpoint, there will be a Small Talk Networking Session, followed by an Ulster Scots Traditional Music Session, ceramic painting and mocktails. On 2 July there is a trip to Stormont for a guided tour and a meeting with local MLAs, while on Friday, 3 July, there will be a performance of the Judging Famine's Follies play in Newry, which involves the audience deliberating on the role of the landlord during the Great Famine.

The Mournes, Slieve Croob, Downpatrick and Rowallane DEAs have organised a separate series of events running from 30 June until 28 September. These begin with an event at Newcastle Community Cinema on 30 June, exploring the story of the Mournes through archive footage and a historical talk on Newcastle harbour. On 29 July there is a guided visit through the Annesley Walled Garden and Arboretum at Castlewellan Forest Park, while on 25 August there is an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Ireland's patron saint with visits to St Patrick's Grave, Down Cathedral, the High Cross and Down County Museum in Downpatrick. On 28 September the focus switches to Delamont Country Park outside Killyleagh, with an interactive tourism bus and the chance to join an expert foraging guide to learn how to safely identify and gather seasonal ingredients in the park.

The summer scheme is being supported by a number of Council partners, including the Northern Ireland Executive's T:BUC Programme, the Public Health Agency, Newry Mourne and Down Age Friendly District, the Southern Health and Social Care Trust and the County Down Rural Community Network.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, said he was delighted events would take place across the district's DEAs. "Providing a summer scheme for our senior residents is an excellent idea and I am delighted there will be events across our DEAs. There will be something for everyone, with the events providing an opportunity for people to connect and enjoy some fun activities, as well as visiting places of interest. Thanks also to the organisations supporting this initiative." Cllr Hanna said the scheme offered older residents the chance to stay active and build new friendships, adding that it was also a way of recognising their contribution to the district. "The summer programme is not only about ensuring the participants have fun, but a way of giving back for what they have contributed to our district over many years and show them how much we support and value them."

Places for all events are limited and booking is essential by contacting shona.mcilhone@nmandd.org, when timings will be provided.