A COMMUNITY group for those over 70 years old in Chew Magna threw a surprise birthday party for their leader.

The party, which was held on June 13, was in honour of Sam Oliphant, the creator of Chew Chat Group, who was turning 60 years old.

Taking place instead of the group’s usual Friday coffee morning at Millennium Hall, the surprise party included speeches, songs and a presentation to Sam with a large birthday banner and cake.

To mark the occasion, the venue had trails of personalised bunting with each member of the Chew Chat Group designing their own panel of the bunting.

Sam set up Chew Chat in 2018 with the aim of providing greater connections and socialisation to elderly people in the village. In the time since, the group grew to support over 85 members.

Leading all the activities with a group of volunteers, Sam co-ordinates twice weekly meet ups. She also co-ordinates a range of activities, such as walks, theatre trips, music and much more.

She also produces a journal called the Chew Chat Times, where members are invited to share snippets from their lives and interests.

Carol Lander, volunteer and member of Chew Chat, said: “There was no way we were going to let Sam’s 60th birthday pass without a celebration. Everyone in Chew Chat is so grateful for all that she does daily to help get everyone together and in fun and engaging ways.

“We all think of her as a superwoman, a best friend and a guiding light. She brings laughter, care and kindness and has honestly saved lives. It was a really lovely morning to celebrate her and everything she’s achieved with Chew Chat.”

In place of a birthday gift, Sam requested donations to charity Cure Usher Syndrome. All members had the opportunity to contribute, and the final donation totalled £500.