Ann and Deirdre – A Friendship That Has Stood the Test of Time
Ann and Deirdre might throw the odd cross body punch at each other during their weekly Love to Move class but they really are the best of friends. In fact, they have been for over 70 years – a true testament to the lasting nature of some friendships.
They first met at school at the age of 12. After leaving school, they both lodged in Ipswich and used to love going out dancing together every night.
At 19, they went on holiday together to Butlins in Skegness where Ann made holiday romance a reality, meeting Alan, who became her husband.
Both Ann and Deirdre went on to marry and have busy families and, by a wonderful coincidence, each gave birth to a daughter on the same date in June. Their daughters later went to school together. Amongst their extended families, they now boast seven great-grandchildren between them, with another two soon to arrive. With such busy family lives, Ann and Deirdre had only bumped into each other now and again until the sad events of losing their husbands within months of each other brought them closer together again.
These days, it is their weekly Love to Move session that gives Ann and Deirdre the perfect excuse for a catch up. Now both 84 years young, they have been regulars at their local session in Coddenham, Suffolk, for the past few years.
Love to Move is more than just an exercise class.
Developed by the British Gymnastics Foundation, the programme combines seated movements with music and cognitive stimulation to support older people to stay active, improve mobility, coordination and confidence, while providing valuable opportunities to socialise and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Deirdre is amazing at coming up with innovative alphabet subjects for us week after week and is our biggest Elvis fan, whereas Ann just loves the 50s tunes and is renowned for bringing all the best biscuits – not just any biscuits – M&S chocolate covered custard creams!!
For Deirdre, it is the social side, “mixing with people” that she enjoys about the sessions the most.
For many people, that’s exactly what Love to Move is all about. Alongside the physical and cognitive benefits, the sessions help people make new friendships, reconnect with old ones and become part of a welcoming community where everyone is encouraged to move, laugh and enjoy themselves.
Alas, the dancing is seated these days and the skirts are not so short, but with a little help from Love to Move, Deirdre and Ann are continuing to make wonderful memories together and adding new yarns to the rich tapestry of their lasting friendship.
Interested in trying Love to Move?
Love to Move sessions take place in communities across the UK and are open to older adults of all abilities. Whether you’re looking to keep active, improve your wellbeing, meet new people or simply enjoy an hour of music and movement, we’d love to welcome you.
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