INTERNATIONAL

UFOLEP

Better Government for Older People

A PARTY of older people from Hamilton and East Kilbride were wished “Bon Voyage” as they headed off on a walking tour of France.

Better Government for Older People members have arranged the tour in conjunction with South Lanarkshire Older Walkers and the International Sports and Culture Association.

Through the Scottish association of local sports councils and South Lanarkshire Sports Council Forum, a small group of officials from the French sports for all organisation, UFOLEP, did a study tour to Scotland, part of which included a visit to South Lanarkshire.

The group met with the Provost, Councillor Russell Clearie MBE, who hosted a small civic reception to mark their tour and, in his role as older people’s champion, brought the French seniors together with representatives of Better Government for Older People to share experiences and exchange ideas.

From this meeting in November 2007, Better Government for Older People have been communicating with the French seniors programme, and older people representatives themselves organised the walking tour which will take place in Savoie, France from April 27 until May 4.

The walkers will meet with French seniors and enjoy a varied programme of activity which is part of an overall festival of nature.

Fifteen older people in total from South Lanarkshire will be joining the festival in France and will be taking with them information about the Better Government for Older People programme as well as some goodies from South Lanarkshire to share with their French counter parts.

South Lanarkshire Council’s Provost, Councillor Russell Clearie, was on hand to wish the party well and hand out information packs at a reception in SLC’s HQ recently.

He said: “It’s extremely important as you advance in years to keep fit and active. This walking tour will certainly allow the BGOP members to do that.

“I am sure they will represent everyone from South Lanarkshire in a very positive fashion.

“As well as the obvious benefits of our folk being able to immerse themselves in a bit of French culture, I would like to think the French people will also benefit from learning a bit about our culture.

“This is a first-class example of what a great initiative BGOP is, and I am sure those going over to France will learn all about partnership and team working.

“I’ve also told them that they are going over there to represent the Council – and if they can’t be good, to at least be careful!”

Posted : 24/05/2008