Residents in Abbotts Ann came together recently for the very first I Can Abbotts Ann Active Social, enjoying a morning filled with conversation, laughter, friendly competition and new connections. The event, held at Abbotts Ann War Memorial Hall, marked the start of a new community initiative designed to help people stay active, keep connected and live well.
Delivered by Valley Leisure’s I Can Move More service in partnership with the Trustees of Abbotts Ann War Memorial Hall, the sessions aim to provide local people with regular opportunities to socialise, take part in light activities and support their wellbeing close to home.
The first session welcomed eight attendees, who were greeted with a warm atmosphere created by local volunteers and community partners. Over tea and coffee, participants got to know each other before taking part in a lively “Spin the Wheel” quiz. The morning then stepped up a gear with a game of Kurling, where friendly rivalry quickly emerged between the teams.
The session concluded with refreshments, cake and a group discussion, during which attendees shared positive feedback about the experience.
One participant said,“I enjoyed Kurling. I’ve never done that before!” while another suggested,“We need to set up a Kurling group in Abbotts Ann!”
Volunteer and Hall Trustee Helen Clark reflected on the morning:
“It was lovely to welcome everyone to our first session of I Can in Abbotts Ann. Chatting over coffee and cake, getting to know each other, exercising our brains with a quiz and our bodies with Kurling. Who’d have known we could be so competitive? It demonstrated precisely the value of the Hall. The Trustees of the Hall are really pleased to be working with I Can Move More to develop their services in a rural community.”
The Active Social builds on a successful year for the I Can Abbotts Ann project, which has already delivered launch events, Mobility MOTs and community engagement activities. Created in response to local demand, the initiative exists to help residents find more opportunities to meet others, stay active and support their wellbeing within the village.
Join Us This October
Future Active Social sessions will take place on Saturday 3rd October and Saturday 17th October, from 10am to 12pm at Abbotts Ann War Memorial Hall. Sessions cost £5 per person and include refreshments, social activities and opportunities to get moving in a welcoming environment.
Could You Volunteer?
The future of the group beyond October depends on recruiting additional volunteers. If you’d like to support your local community, meet new people and help make these sessions possible, we’d love to hear from you.
For more information about attending or volunteering, contact Hannah, Community Coordinator, on 0300 373 1066, WhatsApp 07874 418083, or email [email protected].
Whether you’re looking to try something new, make new connections, stay active or simply enjoy a cuppa and good company, a warm welcome awaits at the next I Can Abbotts Ann Active Social.