Local volunteers deliver afternoon tea to 90 residents

The 'Tea for You' team have taken on the challenge of providing afternoon teas for residents every month

Spotland and Falinge community volunteers got together again to provide afternoon tea to 90 local residents over the last week.

As part of the Great Get Together, inspired by Jo Cox, the group celebrated that we have more in common, as they reached out to show kindness and let others know that someone is thinking of them.

Having seen the positive impact these afternoon teas have had on recipients, the newly formed 'Tea for You' team have taken on the challenge of providing teas for residents every month.

Vintage Worx at Falinge Park, who were honoured this year with the Queens Award for Voluntary Service, funded the afternoon teas which each contained homemade sandwiches, sausage rolls, pate, cheese, crackers, cakes, scones and fresh fruit. Vintage Worx's Tracie Powers, said: "After nearly four months of lockdown, we thought it would be nice to bring a smile to the faces of residents who have been the most socially isolated."

The boxes were made and delivered by the group, which includes community volunteers Tracie and Sam Powers, Leonie O'Donoghue, Debbie Williams, Julie Waller and Iryna Lysnyj, and local councillors Wendy Cocks and Rachel Massey.

Spotland and Falinge Councillor, Wendy Cocks, said: "All the people I delivered to were delighted and touched by the fact that someone was thinking about them. It was building on the VE Day afternoon teas. Just someone coming to the door with a smile and some lovely food and a doorstep chat really cheered people and made it a different day and therefore special."

Councillor Rachel Massey added: “Some of the teas we delivered went to people that Rochdale Connections Trust have been supporting, ladies who have experienced domestic abuse and are extremely isolated at the moment. It's meant a lot to them to see that people care. I’m grateful to our local businesses, especially Bev Place, the local Coop Member Pioneer, who kindly supported this by providing food and ingredients. I couldn’t be more proud of the amazing group of volunteers who willingly give up their time to help others, and make a real difference in our community.”

The team are currently looking to secure funding and the support of other generous local businesses to keep this going. If you can volunteer or donate, please get in touch by contacting Sam Powers, at Vintage Worx, Falinge Park on: 07760 354 698 or email: vintageworxoffice@gmail.com