Preston firm Vincents Solicitors has hosted a free chippy tea to support Age UK Lancashire’s campaign to end loneliness.

The social night, which also included a quiz and live music, took place at Age UK Lancashire’s Lifestyle Centre in Chorley. 

Staff from the law firm and the charity served up food made by local chip shop J Seas. Music was provided by local act The Elderly Brothers.

The event was part of Vincents’ commitment to the Ending Loneliness campaign, which aims to reach out to people over 50 who may feel lonely or isolated.  

Claire Hamilton, head of Vincents’ Chorley office, said: “It was so wonderful to see our guests enjoying themselves and I was really pleased the event achieved its aim of bringing new people to the centre for a fun and friendly get together.

“Everyone said they’d had a good time and they were really impressed with what Age UK Lancashire has to offer here in Chorley.

“I hope those who ventured out will have gained some confidence, made some new friends and will return to the centre to make use of the fantastic facilities there. We also hope to see them again at the next event.”

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Sylvia Bouskill of Whittle Le Woods was among the guests. She said: “It was a delightful afternoon. It was lovely to meet new people and have a chat, it was great fun and the food was delicious.”

Angela Moss, Centre Manager from Age UK Lancashire added: “This really was a fantastic event and we can’t thank Vincents enough for getting involved with our campaign and staging such a fun evening.

“We have a lot of different activities throughout the week at the Lifestyle Centre but we’re always looking for new ways to encourage people to come together and enjoy themselves, and this event certainly did that.

“It was great to welcome so many new visitors to the centre, several of whom have now shown interest in our activity groups and lunches, plus we even got an offer from someone who wants to volunteer with us.

“We’d love to see all of our ‘chippy tea’ guests again as we enjoyed meeting and chatting to every one of them.” 

Age UK Lancashire provides a range of services to help people live independently, remain active and socialise.

The Lifestyle Centre on Gillibrand Street welcomes new visitors who want to find out more about what’s on, or just pop in for a drink and something to eat.

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The Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4pm. To find out more, call in to the Centre or ring 01257 267293.

What do you think of the Ending Loneliness campaign? Let us know in the comments below.