“Lovely people, lovely food and lovely music. I spoke to everyone on all the stalls so learned a lot, and everyone was so helpful, thank you.” is how one attendee from Andover described the Big Band Buffet, held at Test Valley School in Stockbridge, which has once again proved to be a major hit with residents.
The purpose of the annual event is to support older and vulnerable people in the community to stay safe and well, whist enjoying themselves and reducing the risks of isolation this winter.
Over 115 residents aged 55 and above attended the free event on Saturday 4TH November where they listened to music, enjoyed a lunch buffet and heard from agencies including Andover MIND, Hampshire Police, Unity and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) about the support available to them.
Some also showed off their dancing skills to music from The Clive Fortune Big Band, who performed some of their best big band classics and jazz standards.
Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Philip Lashbrook, welcomed people to the event, alongside the Mayoress, Cllr Linda Lashbrook.
Cllr Philip Lashbrook said: “The Big Band Buffet was a brilliant event, and a wonderful time was had by all. We heard such positive feedback about the music, food and all the agencies who were there providing support. I’m delighted the Mayoress and I were able to attend and chat to so many of our residents. A big thank you to everyone who helped bring the event together.”
