Surprise gifts go out to Caistor area over 60s

Parcels of festive cheer have been helping combat isolation in the over 60s.
Some of the volunteers who put the packages togetherSome of the volunteers who put the packages together
Some of the volunteers who put the packages together

Lincolnshire Cares provides a much loved and valued community service offering friendship and support to people over the age of 60 in Caistor, Nettleton, Cabourne, North Kelsey, South Kelsey and the surrounding district

On the day when they had hoped to hold a Christmas lunch, Caistor Sports and Social Club was a hive of activity as volunteers helped with the packing and delivery of surprise Christmas gifts for the members of Caistor Cares and Kelsey Cares, which are both groups of the local charity Lincolnshire Cares.

The gifts had been home-baked by local caterer Wendy Smith, ably assisted by Tina Earls and Aubrey Smith, and included mince pies, plum bread and a Christmas cake.

Tasty seasonal treatsTasty seasonal treats
Tasty seasonal treats

Another wave of helpers distribute the goods around the town’s seniors and even further afield into the neighbouring villages.

In all, around 150 gifts were delivered, much to the surprise of those on the receiving end – some of whom were quite emotional to be remembered and thought about during these challenging times.

Lincolnshire Cares chairman Chris Robey said: “We were delighted with how smoothly the operation went, despite the terrible conditions, and it was heart-warming to see the look of delight and surprise on our members’ faces.

“We are sorry that we have not been able to hold our coffee mornings and parties since the beginning of March and look forward to starting these again as soon as it is safe to do so.”

He continued: “We are very grateful to a local trust for a large anonymous donation, as well as a donation from R.A.O.B. (The Buffs), which helped cover the costs.

“In addition, we had a kind donation of a hamper from Ringtons, which was the main prize in a free raffle that we also organised for our members.

“Our main thanks must go to Wendy and her team for the huge task of baking such a quantity of lovely festive fayre, which was so well received by our members.”

Chris added: “If you know of anyone in Caistor, North Kelsey, South Kelsey or the surrounding villages who is over 60 and feeling isolated or lonely, then please contact me on 01472 851189, as Lincolnshire Cares is still offering a telephone befriending service, until we can go back to face to face befriending.”