A TEESSIDE based community organisation has just completed its 20th Christmas get together – with almost 100 members enjoying a festive lunch and live entertainment throughout the day.

North Ormesby Senior Over 50s Club held their annual function in Middlesbrough just ahead of the break and organiser Molly Griffiths was ‘ecstatic’ that so many people turned out for the party despite the ongoing Covid concerns.

Molly said: “It was challenging and a bit nervy to get it all sorted and also to stay positive against the backdrop of the mayhem Covid is causing, but we got there and the phone has not stopped ringing since, regarding the joy it brought to so many locals. It really makes it all worthwhile when the phone is constantly ringing with words of thanks.

"It really is a very special group we have and others should join us. Twenty years has simply flown by, but we are all delighted to get to this special Christmas anniversary.”

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The Over 50s Group was set up by Molly in 1996 and the organisation has gone from strength to strength during that time.

Molly added: “We have shared some fantastic memories together and have had some wonderful holidays abroad, regular social events and day trips. Our last long journey was just ahead of the Covid lockdown a couple of years ago when we had a great time in the sunshine of Benidorm – it was a wonderful break for us all.

“A lot of planning goes into the club events and so much needs to be paid for and booked in advance. I was having some sleepless nights ahead of the party just before Christmas as there was the prospect of it all being cancelled.

"Last Christmas was scrapped through lockdown and it was a huge blow to all of our members as we all love getting together and making the most of the festive season. In reality though so many have had lives sadly ruined by this dreadful disease and that puts it all into perspective for us.

"It is heartbreaking to see the devastation Covid is causing.”

The festive lunch took place at the North Ormesby Workingmen’s Club - live music, a local dance group, live musical entertainment, a piper and an appearance by the popular BBC Radio Tees presenter Paul ‘Goffy’; Gough helped make the day a big success and included a full Christmas lunch and parcels of presents for the members to take home.

Goffy said: “Molly Griffiths is a very inspirational lady and a person that our area should be hugely proud of. I often talk on my BBC Radio Tees shows about the amazing work Molly puts in for her club members and they so much adore her and have huge respect for all the zest she brings to life.

"To so many she has been a lifesaver in their darkest times – making people feel wanted is a great gift that she possesses.

“Molly is one of those names that when you see the New Year Honours list from the Queen you expect to see the name Molly Griffiths – she is a remarkable human being and puts in endless hours to make it all happen. Hard to imagine that the club started with just four members in a church hall back in 1996 and Molly has now made it a Teesside institution in so many ways.

“It really is an uplifting story. You can see the joy and comfort it brings to so many when visiting and being invited to say a few words.

"There is a great bond with them all and that is so uplifting to witness."

The club moves to its new base at the Trinity Centre in North Ormesby Church on January 17 and new members are welcome.

Molly said: "It’s a very difficult time for people right now after Christmas, and if anyone is feeling a touch lonely or lost then they should come and join in the fun of it all with us."

Molly and her team are already preparing for a Mother’s Day event in the New Year and for the Royal Platinum celebrations in the summer.

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