Bank Mill’s generation game proves a big hit
CHRISTMAS is supposed to be the time of joy and happiness - but for older people who are isolated it can be lonely.
To combat the problem, members of Bank Mill House Senior Citizen’s Group in Great Harwood arranged for children to mix with older people through visiting a special Santa’s Grotto.
More than 300 pupils from all five primary schools and Little Cheeky Monkeys and Early Bairds nurseries visited different group sessions at Bank Mill House and took part in art and craft activities while waiting to see Santa.
They also visited Dukes Brow and Lyndon House sheltered accommodations to spread the festive cheer and perform Christmas songs for residents.
Liz McGinley, chair of Bank Mill House Senior Citizen’s Group, said the events were made possible through a £4,000 Tesco Bags of Help grant.
She said: “The whole ethos was to bring the younger children and senior citizen’s together. It was really nice to see.
“It’s been hard work but worth every single second. It has exceeded everybody’s expectations.
“We decided we would target children in nursery and reception classes and we had over 300 take part.
“They came in and talked with the senior citizens and were so confident and funny.
“They also did craft activities together while they were waiting to see Santa in the grotto.
“Some of the senior citizens, volunteers and committee members dressed up as elves and that was really popular too.”