GEM group in Collingham and South Scarle hosts its Christmas party

A social group had a visit from Santa during their Christmas party.

GEM a greet, eat and meet social group, held its Christmas party last Wednesday (December 4) at South Scarle Community Centre.

The party hosted 58 guests who at the end were visited by Santa, who gave all the guests a Christmas card and a small gift.

The party started with tea, coffee or sherry and mince pies whilst mulling over a Christmas Quiz.

Entertainment was provided by Rattlejag Morris, who was not only singing and dancing to a live band but also encouraged the audience to join in.

A three-course Christmas-themed lunch was served including a main course of turkey with all the trimmings.

During dessert answers to the quizzes were given, raffle prizes were won and a rendition of “Walking in the Air” was sung by Judah Markland.

Rosemary Fabian, vice-chairman of Collingham Parish Council said: “The volunteers would like to say thank you for the generous donation received from Newark and Sherwood District Council that helped fund the event.

“All the guests really enjoyed the party and are looking forward to the GEM sessions to start again.”

The sessions will return on Tuesday (January 7) to Phoenix Hall in Collingham.

The social group was set up by volunteers in February 2023, it followed the pandemic which left a lot of elderly people feeling lonely and cautious about returning to their pre-covid ways.

The group aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for people to get together socially, enjoy some activities and have a simple but nutritious lunch

The group runs sessions in Collingham at Phoenix Hall on alternate Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm and South Scarle at the Community Centre on alternate Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm.