A CHRISTMAS party brought festive joy to more than 80 older residents from across Radcliffe.

Some 87 people from nine care homes attended the Rotary Club of Radcliffe's annual event, accompanied by carers and staff.

Visitors to the clubhouse at Radcliffe FC enjoyed an afternoon tea, game of bingo as well as some singing and dancing.

Harry Garstang, aged 98 said at the event: "I enjoyed a good sing and a dance. You couldn't knock an event like this — it's lovely."

Another resident Joan Greenhalgh, aged 87, said: "We enjoy attending the Rotary events. It gets you out and about. You would not come to anything like this but for the people that run them."

Care assistants Maria Burke and Lorraine Higham brought a number of residents from Grundy Day Care Centre.

Maria said: "We always bring a group to the event. They really appreciate coming along."

The Christmas party, which is now in its sixth year, aims to create a safe space for residents to come together and socialise.

Charlotte Nield, who works at Hollybank Care Home said: "It is brilliant for the social aspect. The residents get to meet new people and share their stories with others.

"It is a really good atmosphere. Music is really important for people with dementia because they recognise the songs.

"The organisers of this event are absolutely brilliant."

Singer Jessica Cambray, who lives in Little Lever, performed a range of well-known festive tunes for guests.

Diana Morton, one of the Rotary volunteers, said: "Some have said it is one of the few events where all of the residents, whether they have dementia or physical disabilities, can come together and be in a safe atmosphere.

"They get up and have a sing and a dance. It is about providing a space for them to enjoy themselves. It is about their wellbeing."

The Christmas party drew residents from Abbeycliffe Care Home, Abbeyfield House, Rose Court Care Home, Whitefield House, Hollybank Care Home, Gorsey Clough Nursing Home, Pinfold Lane Day Centre, Grundy Day Care Centre and Alexander Care Home.