Good news in Moray: Tell me why I DO like Mondays
The Moray Monday Club held a special celebration yesterday after being awarded £9600 for its work in supporting people with dementia.
It was a special day for the social club which has fought its way back to once again play an active and much-needed role within the community.
The pandemic allied to the sad passing of more than one of its leading committee members forced the its closure for nearly two years.
When the club was finally able to start up again in January 2022, its numbers had dwindled to just 20 – about a third of its pre-Covid membership.
However, the word about its good work has continued to spread since.
As a result more than 60 people were at the Williamson Hall in Elgin for yesterday's get-together.
Club chairman Wendy Burges declared she "was over the moon" about the lottery community grant of £9600.
The cash will be used to pay for hall rental charges as well as for the entertainers who regularly come along to brighten up the weekly meetings.
In addition, the money will also go towards the club's in-house special events during 2023, such as its upcoming Burns lunch, Valentine's Day party, King's coronation party and summer buffet.
Hopes are also being held that the club will be able to secure some other funding to enable its members to enjoy lots of fun outings throughout the year.
Wendy said: "More and more people are joining us, which is wonderful.
"I think folk realise that they can come along to Monday Club and enjoy themselves, that they don't have to feel apprehensive, that they can come and have some fun.
"When we were applying for the grant we asked some of our members what they thought about the club, and several said it was the highlight of their week.
"We held a silent disco during yesterday's event, where everyone was up listening to their own music and dancing.
"You were gazing around at people's faces and the looks of enjoyment were really special."
The Moray Monday Club has been operating since 1986 for people with dementia as well as their carers and family members.
It meets between 1pm-3pm each week in the Williamson Hall, Elgin.
To find out more, either contact 07434 612888, visit its Facebook page or email moraymondayclub@gmail.com
