Age is no barrier to learning something new and enjoying life!

That was certainly the case for a number of our supported older folk in the West Mainland thanks to collaborative working with the Orkney West Mainland Flower Produce and Industrial Show.

A new category for assisted entries was created by the committee where people who have home care, live in sheltered housing, go to the West Mainland Day Centre or live in Hamnavoe House or Smiddybrae House can enter the show.

The staff and supported folk jumped at the chance!

Kirstie Moar, Duty Manager of Smiddybrae, said: “It is really important to remember that just because someone maybe can’t do things themselves independently anymore, that they can still get enjoyment and fulfilment from taking part in activities.

“This section has meant that residents of Smiddybrae, Hamnavoe and attendees of the West Mainland Day Centre all had the opportunity to join in an activity that they might have thought they’d never get to do again.  Some of the folk made jam for the first time in their lives!  And the prize winners were rightly very proud of themselves. We are all looking forward to entering in 2024!”