Community events go 'fourth' with new host venue

THE founder of “truly heart-warming” events aimed at tackling social isolation is “beyond proud” after the expanding scheme welcomed a fourth host venue.
By Jill Theobald
Published 26th Jul 2023, 10:20 BST
Updated 26th Jul 2023, 10:38 BST
Left to right - Entertainer Oliver Harris with Olivia Windle and her carer Anna Dene at a previous Friendship LunchLeft to right - Entertainer Oliver Harris with Olivia Windle and her carer Anna Dene at a previous Friendship Lunch
Left to right - Entertainer Oliver Harris with Olivia Windle and her carer Anna Dene at a previous Friendship Lunch

Freelance community consultant Kathy Markwick launched the “Music Makes Memories” Friendship Lunches in South Yorkshire seven years ago, with the Advertiser attending the inaugural Rotherham event in Kimberworth in November 2021.

Since then the dementia friendly social events have sprung up across the borough at The Storyteller in Parkgate and Toby Carvery Rotherham and the initiative is now expanding to Whiston.

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The Sitwell Arms will host its first Friendship Lunch next month after general manager Holly Pilgrim and deputy general manager Amber Chesworth attended a previous “fantastic” event.

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    Holly said: “We are really excited to start hosting Friendship Lunches as it is something we have both wanted to do for a while now.

    “We hope to see new faces and create a lovely afternoon for people within the community.”

    Previous guest Anna Dene is a carer for 22-year-old Olivia Windle who has Juvenile Batten Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder.

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    She said: "I love taking Olivia and my older friends to the Friendship Lunches.

    “Olivia was diagnosed with Juvenile Batten Disease when she was seven and is now blind and can no longer eat, walk or talk but she can hear and smile and she absolutely loves the music.

    “Everyone is so friendly and welcoming – if you are on your own, you will not be for long and will leave with lots of new friends.

    “The entertainment is great and it is really lovely to see everyone having such a good time.”

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    Event founder Kathy said: "I am absolutely thrilled and beyond proud with the success of the Friendship Lunches which are spreading far and wide.

    “The events are truly heart-warming and really do give people something to look forward to.

    “Olivia is a regular guest and her presence undoubtedly helps people to learn more about Juvenile Batten Disease.

    “Age is certainly no barrier – people can find themselves lonely and/or socially isolated for myriad reasons.”

    Tickets to The Sitwell Arms event on Monday, August 7 cost £12 and include a two-course lunch and entertainment.

    To book call the venue on 01709 377003.

    Related topics:Whiston