Golden-Oldies to launch in Exeter

A charity that brings songs and smiles to older isolated people will launch in Exeter in December.

The Golden-Oldies Charity, fondly just referred to as ‘Goldies’ and with Sir Cliff Richard as its Patron, started in the Bath and Bristol area 10 years ago.

Founder Grenville Jones, a well respected West Country choir leader, had seen for himself how singing brought joy to so many people through his many choirs.

Always quick to emphasise that his charity Goldies is not a choir, Grenville took the first four daytime singing and activity sessions for isolated lonely people himself. Ten years on the charity now runs over 150 sessions across England and Wales. For thousands attending Goldies is a highlight for them and the only time that they enjoy the company of others.

Goldies was approached by Exeter City Council early this year. Cllr Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Housing Revenue Account, said:

“Loneliness and social isolation is an issue that needs addressing, so this initiative is great news. It is so important that lonely older people have the opportunity to get out and be with others and the work that Goldies is doing will make a real difference to people’s lives.”

An introduction session led by Grenville Jones will take place at the Guildhall, Exeter, from 10.30am until 12 noon on Monday December 5. It will be attended by the Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Cynthia Thompson and the Council will be inviting a number of residents from some of the Council’s Older Persons’ Housing Schemes.

Said Grenville: “It will be great to bring our songs and smiles to Exeter and I look forward to meeting everyone on December 5 for the very first singing and activity session in the City.”