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Airedale Seniors Collective celebrates successful Silsden gathering

Friday, 25 September 2026 09:16

Airedale Seniors Collective.

A community initiative aimed at bringing older people together across the Aire Valley has celebrated the success of its second event.

Airedale Seniors Collective welcomed residents to Silsden Methodist Church for an afternoon of activities, entertainment and information from local organisations.

The community-led project, created by Spellman Care, is designed as a mobile hub for people aged over 65, with events taking place at different venues across the Airedale area.

Its latest gathering featured a skills-share session, with attendees able to try activities including crochet, jewellery making and DIY, alongside IT support.

Singer May also provided live entertainment during the afternoon.

The event was organised following feedback from the Collective's launch at Sutton Village Hall in June, when one attendee suggested holding an event where people could share their skills and learn from each other.

A number of local organisations and businesses also attended the Silsden event to highlight services available to older residents.

These included Olive & Green, Wiltshire Farm Foods, Keighley Lions Club, Keighley Dementia Advice Community Group, Carelink Befriending Scheme and The Thursday Club.

Following the success of its first two gatherings, Airedale Seniors Collective is now appealing for more volunteers to help with future events.

Organisers are looking for people who can help regularly or on an occasional basis, with roles including setting up venues, preparing and serving refreshments, chatting with guests and helping to promote events within local communities.

The Collective was established to help tackle social isolation among older people and provide opportunities to meet others, take part in activities and find out about support available locally.

Future events will continue to be shaped by feedback from those attending, with ideas including further skills workshops and classic movie afternoons.

Anyone interested in volunteering, suggesting a venue or sharing an idea for a future event can contact the Airedale Seniors Collective at info@airedaleseniors.co.uk.

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