Fenland’s first International Christmas Golden Age Fair proves popular
The first international Christmas market of the Fenland District Council’s Golden Age was a resounding success.
The fair at the Rosmini Centre, Wisbech, on Wednesday (14th) was the first to provide information, advice and support in a range of languages including English, Lithuanian, Russian, Romanian, Latvian, Bulgarian and Polish.
The Golden Age Fairs, held quarterly at locations throughout the district, aim to help those over 60 discover the support, services and benefits available to them.
Just over 100 people attended Wednesday’s event.
Pupils from Elm Road Primary School in Wisbech added to the festive spirit with a performance of Christmas carols. Mince pies, hot drinks and other refreshments were also offered to visitors.
Around 30 agencies attended the event to offer information, help and support. Organizations represented included organizations that provide community transportation, care, health and well-being services, crime prevention counseling, exercise classes, lifelong learning, performance counseling, support for specific issues such as visual impairment, and more.
There was also a pop-up vaccination clinic offering flu and Covid-19 shots to eligible residents.
Annette Houghton, Rosmini Center Project Coordinator, said: “As we are a center for the entire Fenland community, it is simply fantastic to host the first Golden Age International Fair.
“Sometimes people just don’t realize what’s on offer and events like this highlight and promote it.”
Councilor Sam Clark, portfolio owner at Fenland, responsible for health and leisure and Golden Age team leader, said: “We have a very diverse community in Wisbech and Fenland and it’s wonderful for us to come together at this event.
“It’s an opportunity for all of our residents to discover the tremendously wide range of support and services available to them and how to access them.”
The Golden Age Fairs concept was founded in 2013 by the late Councilor Mac Cotterell MBE, who died at the age of 81.
Cllr Cotterell’s wife Marjorie (Madge) attended the Wednesday market.
Ms Cotterell said: “It’s nice to be here today and to see that the work he has put so much effort into helping the older citizens of the area is still being done so well.”
St Peter’s Headmaster Christopher Venables said: “We were delighted to be asked to be involved in the Golden Age event.
“The children had a great time and were grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the festivities of the season in such an exciting way. We look forward to participating in other community events in the future.”
Details of the next Golden Age Fair will be finalized in the new year.
