New Kitchen for Over 50s Group

Trust Thamesmead recently refitted the kitchen at the Pop in Parlour in Evenlode House, Coralline Walk, Thamesmead, after it became apparent the group needed a new one to suit its increased workload.

The Pop in Parlour, who offers cooked food, 10:00am-2:30pm, Monday-Friday and a much needed social outlet for those aged 50+ who live and around Thamesmead, now regularly welcomes around 100 people every week.

The centre is run by dedicated volunteers under the management of Pat and Johnny Thompson. Johnny said: “Having a new kitchen was a necessity - we can't thank Trust Thamesmead enough.”

Pat said: “The new kitchen has made life much easier. It has created more space allowing us to cater for more people.”

Trust Thamesmead's Trustee, Linda Portis who attended the launch said: “The Pop in Parlour has a lovely, warm and friendly atmosphere. It is evident that John and Pat have a real commitment to all they do here. They and the other volunteers work very hard and I have seen first-hand the difference the new kitchen has made to them.

“Their work is so very valuable to older residents of Thamesmead and I am glad we could help.”

John Boice, 81 who has lived in Thamesmead for 31 years said: “I have been retired for 22 years and been coming here for 20. They cook me meals and I get to talk to friends and meet new people. The Pop in really is a life-line to me and so many others.”