CHILDREN from Wickham Market pitted their wits against their elders in a special inter-generational quiz.

CHILDREN from Wickham Market pitted their wits against their elders in a special inter-generational quiz.

The event - part of Active Mind and Body Week - saw the children from the village primary school take on pensioners who use Lehmann House Day Centre for Older People, answering questions on a variety of topics.

Also taking part in the event at the school were members of other lunch clubs for older people in the area, with councillor Rosemary Clarke quizmaster for the day.

Older people are being encouraged to have active minds, bodies and lifestyles and Suffolk County Council's community learning and skills development section has registered 180 people who attend day centres to be involved in activities such as glass painting, life story work, arts and crafts at regular sessions.

Portfolio holder Graham Newman said: “Whether you are eight or 80, age is no barrier to taking up new activities and keeping both your mind and body active.

“An important part is taking that first step to enjoying and embracing new experiences and I'd urge anyone this week, especially older residents, to have a go at some of the events on offer.

“Growing older is a natural process that produces a range of reactions.

“Some people may feel positive about it, while others may have anxieties or mixed feelings.

“Older people, no less than other age groups, can live their lives in ways which protect and promote their health and social and personal wellbeing.”

The council works with a range of organisations, including Age Concern, libraries, museums and others councils, to ensure older people remain as active and independent as long as possible and still linked to the rest of the community.

Libraries have become a key factor in this work, providing weekly activities where older people can socialise in a friendly setting and enjoy reminiscing, reading groups, or chat.

Are there enough activities for older people? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk