A helluva party!’ was how this week’s DEEDS Hallowe’en Tea Party was described as the group brought together the members from all the social and activity groups in the city to enjoy music, dancing and the craic in Bishop’s Field Sports Centre.

One of the city’s foremost entertainers, the fabulous Mickey Doherty sang, danced and entertained the attendance ensuring all there had their moment in the spotlight. The event also saw the city and district’s Deputy Mayor Angela Dobbins join in the fun.

Those in attendance were also treated to high tea that included sandwiches, pastry, and other delicacies to tease the tastebuds.

Delighted with how the day went, DEEDS co-ordinator Sinead Devine praised Micky Doherty for his sterling work in getting everyone on the floor and dancing, joining in the fun and going away with a memorable experience.

‘I am really thrilled with the tea party today. Everyone has had a smile on their face from beginning to end. Our entertainment from Micky was superb. He has a great gift in being able to connect to everyone both on a group level as well as individually. The members have had so much fun today and we have seen so many up on the dance floor and really enjoying a boogie.’

The new Training and Support Officer, Leeann Harris added: ‘Making the tea party happen was a great team effort and testament to the hard work and dedication of all our staff. When you see the members enjoying themselves like this, it really is worth all the effort.’

Drawing attention to a special moment celebrated during Wednesday’s Tea Party, Wendy McLaughlin, DEEDS Support Worker said: ‘We had some special moments today as well with birthday girl Stella being serenaded by Mickey and then husband and wife, Bobby and Pat celebrating 64 years together and dancing to Mickey’s rendition of the old classic “Bobby’s Girl”. The event has just made their day.’

The new addition to the DEEDS team, Kathleen McNaught said her first big DEEDS event was a pleasure to have been involved in and would have brought a tear to your eyes seeing how much people had enjoyed it.

The members had their say on the day’s proceedings with John from Shantallow saying ‘It was a very good event, more than good – it was excellent. You couldn’t get better people.’ While Ann from Strabane described it as ‘Brilliant! loved it, loved every minute of it!’. The man from Caw, Gerard described the event as “super” and added “that guy Micky is a quare singer”. The OLT’s own Carmel was also delighted with the day describing it as ‘Brilliant, immensely enjoyable. What a great day we all had.’

DEEDS has been successful in their second round of funding from the Lottery’s Community Fund which will hopefully make events like this possible, adding to helping create Derry and Strabane as a dementia-friendly region.

Anyone looking for further information on DEEDS and the events held throughout the year, don’t hesitate to contact Sinead on 028 71 373870.