Happy Birthday to MOPPS

The Marsham Older People’s Project at Fairlight recently celebrated its seventh birthday with a party at the village hall.
MOPPS birthday SUS-151118-135328001MOPPS birthday SUS-151118-135328001
MOPPS birthday SUS-151118-135328001

The project, affectionately known as MOPPS, was founded by Fairlight resident Sylvia Gutsell to meet the growing needs of older people in the area who were in danger of becoming isolated.

Now more than 50 members meet regularly at Fairlight Village Hall between 10am and 2.30pm, where they can enjoy activities, companionship and a hot meal.

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MOPPS chairman Jim Saphin thanked Sylvia for forming the project and commented: “We are still going strong.”

Sylvia said: “To me it feels like nearer to ten years as the project took several years to set up. There was a real need for this in the village and it is still in great demand and appreciated by its members.”

For their Halloween themed birthday party, members enjoyed cake and were entertained by singer Carol George.

The 2001 census showed that Fairlight has the highest percentage of older people in England and Wales. Figures show there are over 1,500 people over 60 living in Fairlight, Guestling and Pett, out of a population of 3,697, with over 300 living alone.

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The project has been supported locally by the Fairlight Residents Association, the Elm Tree Farm Boot Sales and local businesses, which have helped pay for special events such as Christmas and Easter parties.

If anyone would like to attend the MOPPs Friday sessions at Fairlight Village Hall, they should call 01424 814 726 between the hours of 9am and 2pm on Fridays.

Sessions cost £5, which includes a nutritious lunch and refreshments. Transport is available, costing between £2 and £2.50. For further information or to arrange a visit contact: Robert Pasterfield on 07860 414277.

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