'˜You're a winner' '“ big cash boost for Havant charity

There were cheers of delight as TV presenter Fred Dinenage presented a cheque of £49,524 at Hewitts in South Street, Emsworth.

The cafe, which is run by the charity Community First, was picked from among 95 organisations across the country competing for £3m of National Lottery funding.

The scheme was a winner after receiving a large number of votes.

The cash injection will go towards the Silver Linings project, which will help older people remain independent in their homes and keep them socialising in the community.

Wendy Shone, co-ordinator for Silver Linings, said: ‘Through our flourishing partnership with The Right to Work, a community interest company, we already run an inspirational community 
cafe for older people in Emsworth with delicious freshly-cooked lunches and table service, all provided by people with learning disabilities.

‘However, we know that older people need more than just a lunch.

‘They need and benefit hugely from the opportunity to spend a few hours in the company of others.

‘Silver Linings will provide this with a range of stimulating activities, including arts and crafts, reminiscence, fun games and quizzes, entertainment and trips out and about.

‘We would like older people to share their lifetime skills with others and have the opportunity to learn new things.

‘Along with gentle exercise and information about healthy living, we hope these activities will ensure they get the most out of life.’

Community First covers the Havant and East Hampshire area and has offices at Langstone Technology Park.

Wendy added: ‘Silver Linings will give older people a few hours here doing lots of fun activities in the company of others and also the chance to have a wonderfully nutritious lunch. What more could you ask for? It is a wonderful example of how communities can support each other.’