Following concerns raised by a number of members the following letter has been sent to

Dame Angela Watkinson MP
Andrew Rosindell MP
John Cruddas MP
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London
Michael White, Leader of the Council

At our meeting in the Council Chamber on the 11^th June our members raised their concerns with regard to rumours reported in the media from all sides of the political spectrum that their FreedomPass may be at risk.

As you are aware, Havering is physically a large Borough and with its growing aging population already has the largest number of over 50’s of all the London Boroughs.  We consider this Pass to be vital to the health and well-being of the older community, not just keeping them active and independent but allowing them to contribute to the economy of the Borough by providing child care, caring for elderly frail friends and family, spending money, and by probably providing the most effective volunteers in the Borough.

As you are no doubt aware Havering Over 50’s Forum is the largest group that meets in the Borough on a regular basis (and I believe the most well informed) and wish to make it very clear they do not wish to be looked on as a cost burden but as a benefit to society and the local community.

We would appreciate your support and comments and should you wish to attend any of our meetings, you would be made most welcome.

Kind regards

Cliff Reynolds
On behalf of the Members and Executive  Committee
Havering Over 50’s Forum

At the launch of the 2013 Caring Neighbour Award Scheme, Havering Over 50’s Forum were very pleased to welcome an impressive guest list and also received good wishes and support from those who were unable to attend due to other commitments.

Apart from the public, guests included the Mayor of Havering, Councillor Eric Munday; Chief Inspector, David Hay; Councillors and Senior Officers of the Local Authority, also Chief Executives from the Voluntary Sector and Community groups, and not least the sponsors of the event, Pinney Talfourd LLB, Frank Rivett & Sons and the Community Police Consultative Group.  Our guests were entertained by a local pianist Davide Di Blasio and afternoon tea was catered for by the Queens Theatre.

Impressively through our guests on the day, 3600 nomination forms have been distributed and within 24 hours the first nominations were received and continue to arrive.  We look forward to a Summer of recognising the community spirit that exists in the Borough and intend to celebrate this at an Awards Ceremony in October. So on behalf of the Executive Committee we would like to thank everybody for being involved.

Free guided rides in your area

Sky Ride Local rides are free, fun guided bike rides that offer a great way of getting out and exploring the local area with friends and family. The rides are guided by friendly British Cycling Ride Leaders along scenic planned routes. With different levels, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re building your confidence or already comfortable on a bike and looking for a challenge.

For details of all the rides available and to register free goto       www.goskyride.com

Havering

Barking and Dagenham

Redbridge

Now that the current issue of HOFF newsletter is out please let me have articles, information and anything you think appropriate for the next edition.  Thank you.

Reply to colinormsby@hotmail.co.uk

Do you have or do you know of a Caring Neighbour? If so let us know

Good neighbourliness is now so important in the community, maybe you need a little bit of help and support especially if you are living alone.We would like to recognise what people do for each other.

So if you would like to thank someone who has helped you with household tasks, odd jobs or perhaps prevented you from being at financial risk, why not thank them by nominating them for an award.

The Scheme is now into its fifth year, with an ever increasing number of nominations. The Launch of 2013 will be Thursday 20^th June. In the Queens Theatre foyer Hornchurch 3-5pm. Free admission by ticket only, obtained from the box office 01708 443333.

Please download the nomination form and send it to

HOFF c/o Town Hall, Main Road, Romford or

HOFF c/o Pinney Talfourd LLP, 40 North Street, Hirnchurch, RM11 1EW

Closing date for nominations is 1st September 2013.

We are planning to have a Christmas lunch in December. This will hopefully be a sit down meal.   More details venue & price to be advised shortly.

A group of members and friends went on a lovely trip to Canterbury in April.  We had a very enjoyable day, with time to visit the catherdral and shop.  This hope this was the first of many such trips.  Further trips will be available soon.

Shirley cant wake this one?

CPSO. Jackie Whitlock who attends the forum, giving lots of advice on staying safe. Think ‘Paddy Fox’ head tour guide took a fancy to our Jackie!

Coach trip to Hastings- Weather not too good that day. But still smiles or was that the few that went into the pub!

Lovely fish n chips was had by many,Lots of fishing interest.

Hill top cafe with gorgeous view.