Diane and EastEnders star Ruldolph Walker celebrate with Caribbean elders
Over 100 elderly members of the Hackney Caribbean Elderly Organisation (HCEO) gathered at the refurbished Stoke Newington Town Hall in Stoke Newington Church Street today (Wednesday) to celebrate 25 years as a community group.
Diane Abbott MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington was joined by EastEnders actor Rudolph Walker in congratulating the organisation on its silver anniversary. The group, which is based in Leswin Road, Stoke Newington were the first to host an event at the brand new facilities of Stoke Newington Town Hall ahead of the official opening on Monday.
Entertainment was provided by Rudolph Walker, who recited a poem by Trinidadian poet Paul Keens-Douglas, gospel soloist Angela Prendergast aka Paulette and Dame Sybil Phoenix, who addressed the group. Traditional Caribbean cuisine was also served.
Beryl Pusey, Advocacy and Outreach co-ordinator for HCEO, said a new advocate program now offers elderly people help with everything from claiming benefits to doing their shopping. “The scheme has been up and running for five months and we’ve been overwhelmed with work,” she said.
Eighty-three year-old James Aymer from Hackney who has been going to HCEO for 12 years said the group was vital for many older people’s social life. “In the West Indies people are always coming in and out of your house to speak to you, but over here once you close the door you might not see anyone,” he said.
Diane congratulated the group on its longevity:
“Over the past 23 years as an MP I’ve seen many community organisations go to the wall and the fact that the HCEO is still here is a testimony to the hard work and commitment of the workers and volunteers. It’s a great pleasure to be here and I look forward to celebrating many more anniversaries to come.”
Pictures show Rudolph Walker entertaining the crowd, Diane and Rudolph and Diane with Dame Sybil Phoenix and Chair of HCEO Victor McAllister
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