College students help entertain at Uckfield party for elderly
More than 100 older people from the Uckfield area were treated to a tea party at the community college on Saturday.
The event saw students and the town’s Rotarians put on a tea and entertainment for people from Buxted, Nutley, East Hoathly, Isfield, Framfield and Uckfield.
Rotarians used their own cars, plus two mini-buses (one loaned by the Lions Club), to ensure that all party-goers were transported to and from from their doorsteps.
The students and teachers of UCTC organised the party.
Rotarians suggested what they might include but it was down to the students who, it is reported, surpassed all expectations.
The main hall was decorated in welcoming colours. As guests arrived the piano was being played . Other students were already serving tea and coffee.
Before the entertainment, the hall was full with the buzz of old friends chatting. A varied programme of entertainment included classical piano, modern singing and guitar playing, a magician with a back-drop of a filmsilently playing.
Other students were active in the hall and the kitchens making more tea and coffee; sitting and talking with the senior citizens; and last-minute preparations with the food.
An array of sandwiches, sausage rolls and a huge variety of cakes were provided. Many elderly people took home a small "doggy bag" and this was greatly appreciated.
Rotary President Chris Purser sent a message to everyone; sadly he was in hospital on the day. He explained that in 2010, due to the snow, the Christmas party had to be postponed until early February.
This had worked well with extra people attending and helping to cheer up the quiet winter period, so it was decided to continue the format this year. UCTC teachers who organised the whole party with the strong student support were Clare Summons and James Hooper .
The supporting cast of other students giving up their Saturday to help exceeded 20 people.
Clive Cooper, the MC for the day, reminded everyone that there are many good young people helping others in the community on many occasions.
Thanks to Ron Hill for the photographs.
Olly Muxworthy is pictured above.
Pictured below: UCTC student entertainers talking to the "Party People"... Maddie Broad - singer, Olly Muxworthy - piano; Beth Ellwood - singer,Daniel Burr - magician and pianist - Tim Bramley
Above: Rotarians with the tea pots - Trevor Wallace,Ric Toovey,Peter Tutt,Clive Crichley and Tracy Mander
Students and Rotarians making sure the cups were filled and there was plenty on the plates
See also:
How Uckfield coped in the snow
MP bids to save Uckfield skills centre
(Added to site Tuesday, February 7th, 2012)
