I run a table-tennis session once a week for the over-50s. It is held at our local Community Centre but several people attend from neighbouring areas.
It was the brainchild originally of a community development charity called The Hangleton & Knoll Project, which offers an enormous number of activities to people of a certain age – as you can see in our .
The table-tennis sessions started about five years ago and were held on a Thursday morning. A flyer was sent out giving details, and much to the surprise of the organisers, had an enormous response. There was a mixture of league players, medium players and beginners. They also supplied a coach.
The most important thing besides playing was the ‘social’ aspect of these session. A break was had after an hour (it was a two-hour session) and tea, coffee, cake and biscuits were offered from a well-stocked kitchen through a hatch to the main hall. This was manned by different players who offered their services. As time went on, it became more and more popular.
It was such a success that one of the league players, a man of very advancing years, decided it would be a good idea to have another session on a Monday. And that is the one that I organise today. We have around 20-25 players each week, with ages ranging from 55 to 83, and they are just the nicest bunch of people who all get on so well. I manage the food and drink each week, and everyone enjoys a natter and a catch-up with their table-tennis friends during the break.
I have also organised a pub lunch on two occasions, and we are now in the process of offering a two-day break at a hotel in Hampshire.
The money received goes towards the hire of the hall, plus any equipment required. Any surplus is given to a charity of choice and this has been very welcomed.
I feel very blessed to be a part of this special group of people, who really appreciate these sessions and seeing my hobby of table tennis bringing joy to others.
Bonnie Margo