FRODSHAM’S annual over 70s lunch and social – hosted by the town council for more than 60 years – has been scrapped.
After weeks of debate over the future of the traditional autumn gathering for senior citizens, costing about £3,500, the authority this week finally ditched the event which most councillors believe has become increasingly unpopular.
Instead, they plan to issue Frodsham’s 1,200 residents who are over 70 with £5 vouchers to spend in local shops, put towards organising their own events or even donate to community groups.
Mayor Andrew Dawson said an informal consultation with residents at this month’s Festival in the Park revealed that of just more than 100 people who responded only 31 were in favour of retaining the over 70s lunch, and 69 supported a voucher scheme.
Cllr Dawson backed a campaign for change led by Cllrs Frank Pennington and John Nield.
Cllr Pennington said about 500 of all eligible residents invited used to attend the social in its heyday, but just 154 people turned up last year.
He added: “The voucher scheme will benefit more people and encourage spending in the town.”
However, Cllr Graham Bondi said later he feared enough eligible residents had not been consulted.
But Cllr Dawson stressed the move was neither a budget cut nor an easy option for the council.
Councillors have formed a working group to finalise details. Meanwhile, town clerk, Ian Hope, is urging eligible residents, or anyone knowing people who would benefit from the new scheme, to contact the town council office on 01928 735150.
