SIR,

Monmouth Action 50+ recently held their enjoyable Annual Christmas Lunch at a local Inn. This event is popular, and perhaps in future we could consider extending invitations to other forums.

Our members are involved with other activities, which includes the interests of all older people. Our transport "Community Grass Routes buses" in Monmouthshire, have been of great help, especially in Rural Areas.

Whilst our new Monnow Vale Hospital, has set up a Service Users Group, working with the Integrated Manager in joint partnership, with Local Authority, Gwent Trust, Local Health Board and Voluntary Sector.

Our Shop Mobility scheme proposals have met with site difficulties. But, we continue to persevere. Intergenerational Schemes, means I get to relive my second childhood, teaching primary children to knit. I really enjoy this, as I did not realise that knitting skills were becoming rare.

The story telling we exchange during that hour down memory lane, amazing. Involvement with evacuees by another member.

We are trying to do our bit, to make growing older not so frustrating.  My involvement with the Older Persons Strategy Group, with the Local Authority, Monmouthshire County Council, has enabled me over several years to have input with the various projects, and strategies that have transpired. Some successfully, others slow. I am sure we are all contributing in our own way.

Action 50+ Monmouth would be interested to hear what you are involved in. We can always learn from one another.

We would invite you to our next meeting where you would be welcomed. David Hill is our Secretary, to be contacted on 01600 714911.

S G Gilbert

(Monmouth Action 50+)