Gander at the lochside
Residents in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are being encouraged to get healthy and they have the chance to start this weekend.
Healthy n Happy Community Development Trust are hosting an event at the James Heritage Park in East Kilbride on Saturday.
Entitled Gab and a Gander, the event is part of their Reconnect programme, funded by the Big Lottery.
It is being run by Healthy n Happy’s transforming lives team and will target older members of the community who can often feel isolated.
The day will be an opportunity for elderly residents to enjoy a day out in natural surroundings, stroll around the loch at their own pace and socialise with others their age.
A range of activities will be on offer as residents make their way around the loch.
Joy Mitchell, transforming lives senior team leader, said: “Gab and a Gander is a fun way to get out and about in your local community, enjoying the lovely environment in the area and finding out more about it.
“Fresh air and green space help lift our mood and blow away the cobwebs.
“This fun day out is a treasure hunt of memories and meeting some new people over a gab and a gander, keeping our minds active and smiles fresh.
“There are several stop-off points around the loch, where our staff and volunteers will give history talks, a trip back in time remembering games like a cleek and gird, a memory tree, use of disposable cameras for participants and a chance to get to know the wildlife of the area.
“A cup of tea and cake is a fine way to finish off in the lovely tearoom at the park.” The event will take place between 1–3pm. Transport to James Hamilton Heritage Park can be arranged through Healthy n Happy, who are based on Farmloan Road in Rutherglen. Shopmobility EK are providing their minibus for the day.
The meeting point for anyone with their own transport is at the loch’s jetty.
Residents who would like transport provided or to receive more information can call Healthy n Happy on 0141 641 5236. Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to book their place.