STRAWBERRIES and cream were on offer as Forest of Dean Age Concern (FDAC) marked its 25th anniversary with a celebration at Cinderford Rugby Club for clients, staff and volunteers.

The event was organised to celebrate 25 years of the charity’s meals service and 12 years of its befriending scheme. It was funded by National Lottery Awards for All.

Chair of FDAC, Daphne Pearson said: “Ten of our district councillors, who include the chair and vice-chair and the Mayor of Cinderford, were here to celebrate with us.

“We were delighted to see them and to welcome a lady who is over 100-years-old, a terrific achievement, who still travels to Cinderford each week for her shopping.

“Our service is available to anyone aged over 65 who needs it. Most of our clients are in their nineties and five are over 100. Three course meals are prepared daily at Age Concern’s Cinderford kitchen and delivered by a dedicated team of volunteers to elderly and housebound Forest residents. We also supply18 lunch clubs.

“The event gave an opportunity to celebrate the positive aspects of ageing and the achievements of some of our clients. Dorothy Trimby in Drybrook is a great example. She’s 102 and knits beautiful squares that get made up into blankets for older people who can’t afford to keep warm. We’ll have one of her blankets on display.”

Anyone who is interested in the service on offer from FDAC can contact Anthea McCann on 01594 827927.