Over 60 guests enjoyed not only a range of sandwiches, cakes and refreshments, but also activities including an exhibition of Rosyth through the years, produced by Martin Rogers, reminding everyone of the changes they had lived through in their community and bringing back a lot of fond memories.

Engagement officer, Helen Miller, said: “The purpose of this event was to help tackle the loneliness and isolation felt by some older residents of Rosyth, allowing them the opportunity to reminisce with each other and enjoy the social interaction which many can be sadly missing.”

Thanks to a generous donation from Babcock, a slipper exchange also took place, giving guests the opportunity to exchange their old slippers for brand new ones. Every year many elderly people end up in hospital as a result of falls and trips in their home and often these falls occur due to loose, worn or ill-fitting slippers. These falls can destroy confidence, increase isolation and reduce independence so by providing a slipper exchange Fife Housing Group hope to help reduce the chance of these, often avoidable, falls occurring.

In addition to the popular slipper exchange, guests took advantage of a book swap, free manicures and expert IT volunteer, Ross Riddock, who provided one-on-one support and guidance for anyone interested in learning more about using a computer and the wonders of the web.

A number of different agencies were also in attendance and kindly donated their time, including the Disabled Person’s Housing Service (DPHS), Cosy Kingdom, EATS Rosyth, Rosyth Community Council, Rosyth Foodbank, Fife Elderly Forum, Link Living and Sacro, all offering relevant and useful information on services available to the elderly.

On top of this, a special mention needs to be given to the many local businesses, such as Stephens, Greggs, Baynes and Scotmid, who generously supported this special event, as without them it would not have been possible.