Members of a tea party were given a surprise visit as the Archbishop of Westminster attended a Palmers Green parish to help the elderly.

The Most Reverend Vincent Nichols attended a tea party for members of St Monica’s Parish in Stonard Road, Palmers Green as part of a charity project by Contact the Elderly.

The project was set up to help elderly people who are isolated in communities and live alone, finding it difficult to get out and about without help.

Established in March this year, the group, the majority in their 80s and 90s, meet for tea on the same Sunday of every month and on Sunday, September 15, were given a surprise when the senior Catholic clergyman visited the group.

Archbishop Vincent said, “This Sunday tea party is a delight with gracious older guests mixing with three generations of the host family. When a family opens its home in this way everyone is blessed. The elderly return home, often to days of loneliness, but with joy in their hearts.” 

Tracey Leighton, the volunteer host, said: “My family was delighted to welcome this small group of older people and their volunteer drivers into our home for afternoon tea, which we enjoyed as much as they did. Many of the older guests told us how much they look forward to these monthly outings and it was great to see for ourselves how much they were all enjoying themselves.”

Guest Valerie Smith, 82, said: “I really enjoy the tea parties; everyone is so kind and I count the Sundays down until the next one. It is no fun getting old, but this kindness makes such a difference.”