Generation gap bridged by project in community

Twelve people with an age gap spanning 55 years shared memories, swapped recipes and took part in sporting and computer contests as part of the Stokesley and Great Ayton Intergenerational project.

Six Duke of Edinburgh students and six people over the age of 50 took part in the innovative project. Over 10 weeks, they shared their photo albums, pointing out the contrasts in the types of photos, fashions and locations.

They also tried indoor bowls at Stokesley Town Hall and a Nintendo Wii ten pin bowling contest. The final two sessions saw them sharing baking recipes and cooking tips.

The programme culminated in a presentation at Stokesley Library where a photo record of the programme has been displayed and certificates of achievement presented.

The young people also had the added benefit of being able to use the programme towards the community element of their Duke of Edinburgh award.

Hambleton Council's Lifestyles Manager Lisa Wilson

said: "Intergenerational projects benefit communities in lots of ways – by improving cohesion between the young and old, reducing the fear of crime among older people and lowering the number of incidents of anti-social behaviour by young people."

The Stokesley and Great Ayton Intergenerational Project Group is currently made up of the Hambleton Over Fifties Forum, Stokesley and District Community Care Association, Stokesley Leisure Centre, Stokesley Library and Information Centre, Volunteer Centre – Stokesley, Broadacres Housing Association, North Yorkshire County Council and Hambleton District Council.