View Programme 2012; Contacts and Events >>

OASIS 2011

Once again the 3 days of company and activities in August attracted over 50 senior citizens. The programme went as promised (with only minor hiccups) and a great time was had by all who came - including a couple of grandchildren! Lin Miller reports:

• “The range of workshop activities included card-making and playing 'Countdown', though unfortunately not a pottery painting session as the potter failed to turn up! Nevertheless, everyone enjoyed sharing memories and tips for writing memoirs with local historian Martin Harris, who also gave us an interesting talk on the history of the Nuffield Orthopaedic Hospital. There was a speaker from the Thames Valley and Chilterns Air Ambulance and the three days were rounded off with a sing-along.
• “A hot lunch was served each day and ladies from the three churches provided delicious cakes for afternoon tea. And members of our local clergy provided an amusing and thought-provoking epilogue.
• “There were several new attendees this year and many new friendships were formed, as well as old friends getting together. There is always a very friendly atmosphere: most people enjoy 'having a go' at activities they would not normally try, but for some this is just a chance of some company and social interaction. Our sincere thanks to the Parish Council for the grant which enables us to continue to run this event which is so much appreciated.
• The next event will be the OASIS Carol Service in December and then the Spring Re-union Tea in May next year.”

OASIS 2010

• “We have had three very busy, but enjoyable days and sampled a wide range of activities: cheese tasting, choral speaking, papercraft, making bird feeders, learning about the work of PAT Dogs (and meeting dogs Emily & Amy) and creating limericks.
• There was the usual freshly cooked hot lunch each day, and ladies from the three churches in turn provided delicious home-made cake for the afternoon teas. The three days were rounded off in fine style by Rev Jean Andrews & Maureen Thompson leading a musical afternoon. We sang songs old and new, waved flags and there was even some dancing in the aisles!
• “Several new people attended this year, as well as those who had come before, and there was a very happy atmosphere. The benefits of good food, good company and mental stimulation cannot be measured and many new friendships have been formed.
• “We have managed to keep the charge to participants down to £2.50 a day and this was helped enormously by the generous donation from the Parish Council for which we send a huge thank you.”

OASIS 2009: view Lin's report >>