International Older People's Day was celebrated in Salisbury last week, with the celebrations attracting hundreds of people.

More than 300 people gathered to enjoy the Silver Salisbury Festival at the city's Guildhall last Wednesday,  25 September.

Mayor Sven Hocking opened the day, which enjoyed live music and dancing.

Organisers said: "The thread that ran through all the groups was that the activity is interesting, fun, challenging, rewarding, engrossing, but, just as important is the social aspect: the chats, the coffee mornings and the friendships that are formed by joining in.

"That everyone remembers their first visit and how their anxiety at going somewhere totally new was soon dispelled by the welcome they received."

Dance six-O presented a sample of a regular meeting demonstrated that the group was for all and previous dance experience was not required.

This was followed by a very different style of dance, the Mulepackers line dancing group which encouraged members of the audience to join in.

Coffee Choir (Image: Spencer Mulholland) The event was also joined by Dr Phil Harding in his role as a Deputy to the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire.

The afternoon performers were both choirs directed by Kate Edgar, the Coffee Choir and the Navy Larks.

Sandwiched between the two choirs was an amazing interview: Olivier award-winning composer, musical director and local choir leader, Kate Edgar spoke to Radio Odstock’s John Elliot.

Visitors heard stories about her life in Art and music and listened to her favourite pieces of music that reflected her life and fascinating career.

The festival programme continues until Saturday 12th October with the final event a musical afternoon at the Quaker Meeting House with Sarah Collins.

Mulepackers Line Dancing with Salisbury Mayor Cllr Sven Hocking (Image: Spencer Mulholland) In between are walks and talks, a cycle ride, tea with a pony at Riding for the Disabled, a family day for grandparents and grandchildren at Riverbourne Community Farm, a silent disco and Vinyl Café.

If you are aged sixty or over and not yet seen the festival programme, there are still a few in your local library or at Five Rivers, the Information Centre or Shopmobility. It’s also on our website www.silversalisbury.co.uk

You’ll also be able to pick up the annual directory brochure of 125 different groups and activities throughout the forthcoming 2024/5 year.

If you are interested knowing more or in joining Silver Salisbury then go to their website www.silversalisbury.co.uk.