Over 55s invited to get moving at new Shropshire festival

People over the age of 55 are invited to get moving again as part of an inspiring Shropshire festival.

The Keep on Moving Shropshire festival, which is a partnership between Shropshire Council, Energize, Taking Part, Age UK and the NHS, will launch on Sunday 8 May 2022.

It starts with a free one-day launch event, set to take place from 10am until 4pm at Shrewsbury Sports Village.  

The event is aimed at people over 55, and will include inspirational and internationally-renowned speakers who will give talks on different aspects of positive ageing. There will also be taster sessions of activities for participants to try, from singing to walking netball.  

The festival hopes to inspire people to take part in local activities again after the pandemic, to build people’s confidence and get them out and moving. It is also hoped that the day will increase recognition of the valuable role older people play in communities, as well as improved understanding about what keeps people well as they age. 

At the launch there will be activities to try, inspirational speakers, and a keynote speaker who will discuss the science of ageing. There will also be a number of information stands highlighting different activities and voluntary and community sector support in our communities.  

Throughout May there will be taster sessions run by partner organisations through the county: look out for fun opportunities to try new activities where you live.  

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care and public health, said: “This festival offers people an excellent opportunity to get together and take part in different activities that keep us well, whatever our age. I’m delighted that this event is taking place in Shropshire, and really encourage people to come along and see what it’s all about.” 

Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said: “We’re really pleased to be supporting this event and hope that people are able to come and enjoy the festival. On the day we will hear from inspirational people who are keeping active and showing us that older people make a fantastic contribution to our communities. We are really looking forward to the festival.”