Police tea dance proves a hit (From Stourbridge News)

Police tea dance proves a hit

11:58am Friday 2nd October 2009

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PENSIONERS took a stroll down memory lane at a 1940s tea dance organised by Police Community Support Officers.

The get together, held at Amblecote Christian Centre on September 25, was the brainchild of Kingswinford police officers who wanted to spread crime prevention messages to the elderly in a relaxed environment.

Inspector Kerr Ross of the force’s community cohesion unit, said: “Neighbourhood officers engage with the elderly all the time, but some old people may only come into contact with us if they have been a victim of crime.

“We want to change that through events like this. We wanted them to have fun, have a cuppa, reminisce and take on board some important crime prevention tips.”

Midland-based singer Lee Osbourne bashed out hits from the swing and big band era for the guests, who also got to enjoy a quiz, several rounds of bingo, a sing-song and a spot of lunch at the Brettell Lane hall - which was decked out with bunting and wartime memorabilia.

PCSO Jayne Hunt said: “This event was a great way of engaging with the elderly residents.

“Sometimes people feel as though they cannot approach the police, so we wanted to put on an event that would enable people to chat informally to us about issues that are concerning them.”

Stourbridge MP Lynda Waltho, who opened the event, said: “Events like this are innovative and entertaining but just as importantly they greatly reassure the elderly community.

“If the advice given in a fun setting helps prevent just one crime it will have more than paid for itself.”

West Midlands Fire Service also attended the event - and arranged free home safety checks for those who wanted them.

Police say they are now looking at the possibility of rolling out ‘tea dances with a twist’ across the force.

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