Winchburgh Senior Citizens Group celebrates its 50th year

The Winchburgh Senior Citizens’ Group marked its milestone anniversary by treating 30 of its members – aged from 66 to 93 – to a memorable five-mile trip on the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway.

A volunteer-run group, which meets at 2pm every Thursday in Winchburgh Community Centre, it gives local people a place to socialise, make friends and enjoy live music, entertainment and crafts for just £3 a week, all of which is ploughed back into the club.

Alice Eastty, club president, said: “The group turns 50 this year and it was wonderful to mark the occasion with a memorable trip on the railway, followed by a celebratory meal. At the end, everyone was presented with a commemorative tile made by a local craftsman to remember the occasion.

“We even managed to keep the trip a surprise for our members, which made it all the more special and it cost them nothing to attend thanks to fundraising by the group and a generous £500 donation from Winchburgh Developments.”

Founded in 1973 to provide a place for local people to socialise and make lasting friendships, throughout the year volunteers organise an exciting programme of events, activities and outings which give members something to look forward to.

“Some highlights over the years include our summer trips to Dundee, Pitlochry, Oban and Largs,” recalled Alice. “Every year, we also go on a group trip to the pantomime in Edinburgh and have a Christmas party at St Philomena Church in Winchburgh. We also do an annual Easter Bonnet Parade, which is a tradition that has been running since the group first started – we actually still have one of the winning bonnets from that very first year!

“Another thing we’re incredibly proud of is that members of the group have managed to raise over £10,000 for CHAS, our chosen charity.”

Peter Eastty, club treasurer, added: “A lot of the older people involved in the group live on their own and look forward to coming along every week for a natter and a sing-a-long. The pandemic showed us how important human connections are and highlighted how groups like ours can provide a lifeline for people. We’re a friendly bunch and want to get the word out that there’s lots to do for older people in Winchburgh.

“A lot of our members have known each other all their lives, while others have met through joining the club, and the weekly meets ensure they see each other regularly. We’re always looking for new members and anyone aged 55 and above is more than welcome to join. There’s no need to register in advance, people can just come along on the day. The first session is always free so people can try it out.”

Penny Lochhead, Winchburgh Developments community manager, said: “We’d like to say a huge congratulations to the club on reaching its 50th anniversary.

“We were delighted to support their anniversary celebrations.”

Those looking to join the group should contact Alice Eastty on 01505 891605.