Celebrating Pendle’s older people – join us!

This is the third year the UK has supported International Older People's Day which is on October 1, 2009.

And the Partnership is taking this opportunity to celebrate and highlight the contribution of Pendle's older generations at Nelson's state-of-the-art community facility.

From 2pm onwards there'll be a range of activities at the new Arts Culture and Enterprise (ACE) Centre in Cross Street, Nelson.

All residents aged 55 and over are encouraged to come along to the event - the first of its kind in Pendle.

It's being opened by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Tony Beckett and Deputy Mayoress Mrs Margaret Beckett and there'll be an opportunity to:

• hear from Richard Jones, Executive Director of Lancashire Adults and Community Services for Lancashire County Council

• learn about the digital switch over and what this means for you

• get general advice and information about keeping safe, warm and well

• take part in activities including holistic therapy and exercises

• hear popular local musicians, Take 4

• look round the fantastic new ACE Centre which has a bistro, cinema and theatre and regular art exhibitions

If you fancy dropping in earlier to get something to eat, the bistro is offering a subsidised lunch from 12pm. Afternoon tea will also be available at a special rate from 4pm.

Audrey Westwell Chair of Pendle Seniors Group, said: "I'm thrilled that we're celebrating Older People's Day in Pendle this year.

"We're all living longer and this is definitely a cause for celebration!

"There are so many organisations out there dedicated to providing support to Pendle residents so come along and find out how they can help you.

"It's also a great opportunity to have a look round the ACE Centre, a fantastic new facility which has something for everyone!"

Help and support available will include organising a free fire safety check; assessing whether you need help in the home; advice on how to cut your heating bills and any benefits you may be eligible for.

Clive Thomasson, Strategy and Partnership Manager, for Pendle Council, added: "This is the first event of its kind in Pendle and we're really looking forward to it!

"It will help us to recognise the important role older people have in our society.

"And it gives us an opportunity to tackle negative attitudes and stereotypes by promoting a positive view of later life."

Councillor Mike Calvert, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services for Lancashire County Council, said: "We're committed to making sure that older people have a voice and continue to get access to good quality services.

"This event is a great opportunity to find out what Pendle has to offer and get together with a wide range of people from different backgrounds."

If you would like to go to the event but need transport, ring Lorraine Segui Rayo on (01282) 661049 or e-mail lorraine.seguirayo@pendle.gov.uk Transport needs to be booked by Monday September 28.

Events are also taking place during the week between Monday September 28 and Friday October 2.

Monday (11am - 12pm)          Health Walk from Barrowford Heritage Centre

Tuesday (2pm - 4pm)             Celebrate Health, William's Hall

Tuesday (2pm)                       Cinema Paradiso, Ace Centre, Nelson

Wednesday (1pm - 4pm)       Tea Dance, Ace Centre, Nelson

Wednesday (10am - 2pm)     Age Concern's Open Day, Nelson, Prize draw, information and advice on services and Help Direct

Thursday (2pm - 4pm)           Older People's Celebration Event, Ace Centre, Nelson

Friday (12pm - 9pm)              Banny's 10% Discount Day, Banny's Restaurant at Boundary Mill Store, Colne will give 10% discount on the menu Vouchers will be available at all of the above events.