Age UK Darlington community cafe reopened at launch event

There were sweet treats, colourful balloons and cookie-making fun for all ages as the cafe at Bradbury House in Darlington town centre, which has been given a fresh new look, officially reopened with a feel-good launch event on July 30.

Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington is a nationally registered charity and one of 150 locally based Age UK organisations providing a variety of services to older people aged 50 plus. 

The event was themed around 'Little Chefs & Big Memories' - a relaxed intergenerational activity where children help grandparents or older relatives decorate or plate up mouth-watering cookies.

Age UK Darlington's grand reopening event. Front left to right: Fay Scullion, James Lynn and Nicola Henderson-Begg with other service users, volunteers and grandkids. (Image: NE News)With local families, volunteers and older service users all in attendance, the atmosphere was "warm and lively" as guests tucked into homemade bakes, joined in biscuit decorating, and shared stories over tea and coffee.

Age UK Darlington's grand reopening event. (Image: NE NEWS) Age UK Darlington's grand reopening event. (Image: NE NEWS) Chef James Lynn, who created the cafe's new menu, led a fun baking session with children, helping them prepare biscuits that got quickly devoured by the proud helpers and their families.

Age UK Darlington's grand reopening event. (Image: NE NEWS) Guests were also treated to a sneak peek of the cafe's transformation, which includes fresh interiors, new seating, improved lighting and a brighter layout.

Age UK Darlington's grand reopening event. (Image: NE NEWS) A short video capturing the day’s highlights, including cookie-making and smiles all round, plus a cute dog making a star appearance, was filmed.

It is also available to watch online.

Fay Scullion, Chief Executive of Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington, feels the café is "more than just a place to grab a snack".

"Our services are here to support people aged 50 and over, but our café is open to everyone," she said.

Age UK Darlington's grand reopening event. (Image: NE NEWS) "We want it to be a true community hub - a space where people of all ages can come together, whether it's over a biscuit, a cup of tea or simply a friendly chat. Today's event really captured that spirit."

The café is now open six days a week including on Sundays, making it "more accessible to the local community". The menu features light lunches, homemade cakes, and a range of hot and cold drinks.

Nicola Henderson-Begg, income generation manager at the charity, said: "The café plays a crucial role in tackling social isolation. Many people, especially older adults, experience loneliness.

"Events like today are vital in building connection and giving people a sense of belonging. We had toddlers baking side-by-side with grandparents - and that’s exactly the kind of interaction that lifts people’s spirits.”

The café is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm, and Sundays from 12 to 2pm. All are welcome.