At the heart of community spirit in Winchester
Osborne helped out at a vintage Tea Party in Winchester, providing an afternoon of fun and celebration for local residents.
The party was held at Hyde Parish Hall in Hyde Street and was organised by tenants from Tenants and Council Together (TACT) and council officers from the Tenant Involvement Team.
More than 30 tenants enjoyed an afternoon tea which included sandwiches, cake and scones. As an aim to address isolation, the event was steered towards those residents that live alone. This event over the years has reached many and subsequently this year was oversubscribed.
Student volunteers from Winchester Hub helped out on the day by dressing the room and tables in a vintage theme and then waited tables and engaged with guests.
A world war two jeep was parked at the entrance to the Parish Hall to greet guests as they arrived. In the hall, there was live 40s music, a raffle with prizes, a themed quiz and guests spent the afternoon sharing their stories. .
Vickie Stevenson, Head of ICT and Applications at Osborne had baked a ‘National Loaf’, which was eaten during World War Two. This bought back memories for the guests, with some liking it and others not so much!
There was also a 1940s children’s memory table, with teddy bears, clothing and a gas mask which was a talking point for everyone.
Residents really enjoyed the Tea Party, with one resident saying:
“I have never been to an event before but will look forward to the next. I got to know lots of people and really enjoyed it”
Jo Fletcher, Head of Engagement at Osborne Property Services said:
“This event brought old friends together and they were reunited over wartime sounds, good food and were able to share their stories and tales from the past.”
Michelle Smith, Tenant Involvement Officer at Winchester City Council said:
“A big thank you for all of the effort and thought put into yesterday, and for helping to create such a special event for our tenants. All the little touches meant so much to those who came along”
