Prime Time enjoys first group outing since Covid

Trinity Cheltenham used a grant from the Diocese of Gloucester Mission Grant scheme to take around 20 elderly members of its Prime Time group to the Batsford Arboretum for lunch and a walk.

Prime Time is a ministry for retired people and their friends, meeting monthly at Trinity for lunch, fellowship, and activities such as games, music-based exercise, communion, crafts and poetry sharing.

Nicky Jacklin, Ministry Support Team Administrator for Trinity, provides administrative and practical assistance for Prime Time.

She said: “We needed the grant because some of our group are not mobile, so we hired wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and a specialist vehicle for transport. Many members are financially vulnerable, so the grant covered entry fees and lunch.”

The Prime Timers used to organise regular trips, but they have not had a group trip since the covid pandemic.

Nicky said: “There was huge excitement about the trip. As the weather got warmer, they started to talk about how lovely it would be to do an outing somewhere where they could enjoy the outdoors.

“God did not disappoint. He provided the funding and the most glorious weather.”

Prime Time is logistically possible thanks to Mary Beasant and Toni Rains, two volunteers who have led it for many years.

“Mary and Toni’s meticulous planning made everything run smoothly, with amazing support from the Arboretum staff.

“One member is blind and deaf and brought her guide dog, Bella, who wagged her tail the entire time.

“Two members required mobility scooters. They were given a quick lesson and then set off. They enjoyed being able move freely and keep up with the group.

“We were treated to a fabulous meal which everyone enjoyed. The Arboretum was gorgeous and the huge trees provided much-needed shade as the temperatures soared. Despite the heat, everyone enjoyed the outdoors and some people did quite long walks along the various trails.

“We would like to thank the Diocese of Gloucester for the grant that enabled us to enjoy this lovely outing.”

You can apply for a Mission Grant here →