Three Rivers Pensioners' Forum Winning Formula

Updated: 20 February 2019

On Friday 15 February, over 70 Pensioners gathered at Three Rivers House for an exciting programme of talks, music, time to socialise and fun too!

On Friday 15 February, over 70 Pensioners gathered at Three Rivers House for an exciting programme of talks, music, time to socialise and fun too!

Two enthusiastic councillors brought a new side to the Council Chamber.

Cllr Diana Barber talked about tall ships having spent her time on the sea on them.  A fully fledged seaman, she has worked on all duties on deck, high up in the rigging and as a cook’s assistant. Her enthusiasm extends to attracting young people to work on board and giving the opportunity to the disabled on specially adapted tall ships run by the Jubilee Sailing Trust.

Cllr Keith Martin is enthusiastic about gin and its origins; his hobby is making gin. He told us how gin came to this country from Holland with King William III, spoke of its ups and downs, and the recent rise in popularity. He illustrated his talk with some astounding figures on how much gin this country has drunk over the centuries and went on to explain further with samples of his homemade gin.

Marion Seneschall, District Manager of Three Rivers Citizens Advice Bureau, gave the audience a breakdown of the diversity of services the CAB provides. She said that even the most timid should come with their problems, and the CAB will ensure a service tailor-made for each of them.

Age UK runs the Clitheroe and Wellbeing Centre in South Oxhey. They talked about the way the centre caters for all tastes keeping older members occupied and fulfilled.

The whole afternoon was filled with music carefully chosen and performed by Tim and Rosemary Venner. They played apt background music to the social aspects of the afternoon, and Tim led the audience in songs from their youth.

Cllr Joy Mann, Chair of the Pensioners’ Forum, said: “Thanks to our speakers and growing audience for their valued participation and feedback. We are looking forward to seeing you at our next forum on Friday 28 June, from 1.30pm onwards, for another exciting event.”