The hugely popular Havant Older Persons Information Fair returned on Friday to the Hayling Island Community Centre, with around a thousand people flocking to the event.
The event was organised again by Havant MP Alan Mak and showcased around 40 organisations that support senior citizens in the community.
Also for the first time the Fair offered residents the chance to become a Dementia Friend, with sessions run by Dementia Friendly Hayling.
Mr Mak hailed the day as a “tremendous success” and thanked the exhibitors and the residents who came on the day.
He said: “Another huge turnout shows how many residents want to find out more about the excellent services available for older people locally. I hope many will have been able to join new groups and find out more information about what can be provided in the community.
“The Fair is fast becoming an annual fixture, and I thank everyone that came and made it such a success. I look forward to the Fair returning in 2018.”
The exhibitors at the event included everything from community groups such as the U3A, Hayling Choir and Men’s Shed to statutory bodies such Hampshire County Council, the NHS and Hampshire Police. In addition a number of charities that support older people will also be involved including Age UK, Diabetes UK and the Alzheimers Society.
Helen Collis-Ayoubi from Fawnhope Rest Home and Meals Delivery Service, said: “Proud to support Alan and the team at the fair. It’s a great way to network and share information with the community. A great crowd of people, community spirit at it’s best!,
Jim Ware from Hayling Island Choir said: “The Hayling Island Choir has found a lot of interest from which we hope to get new members. Events of this type are a help to us and the older people in the local community.”
For those unable to attend the event, the full contact details of all the exhibitors can be found at alanmak.org.uk.
Picture 1: Alan with members of the Hayling Island Choir
Picture 2: Alan with exhibitors at the Havant Older Persons Information Fair