Airport's annual ‘Autumn Leaves’ event returns with free lunch and entertainment for over-65s
· After two-year break, ‘Autumn Leaves’ was held on Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 November, with ‘We’ll Meet Again’ 1940s theme
· Attendees enjoyed a three-course hot luncheon with table service, plus an afternoon of entertainment including bingo and a raffle
· Event free for over-65s from Woodhouse Park and neighbouring wards
More than 150 over-65s enjoyed a free afternoon of entertainment on Wednesday and Thursday this week, as Manchester Airport’s ever-popular Autumn Leaves event returned after a two-year break.
Held annually at Woodhouse Park Lifestyle Centre, but put on pause due to the pandemic, Autumn Leaves is free for pensioners from Woodhouse Park and wards neighbouring the airport. It offers a three-course hot luncheon with table service, plus an afternoon of entertainment with bingo and a free raffle.
This year’s Autumn Leaves was themed ‘We’ll Meet Again,’ reflecting its proximity to Armistice Day and the fact there had been a break since the event was last held.
Attendees were serenaded by 1940s entertainer The Lancashire Belle, who regaled them with an upbeat repertoire of wartime hits, and were also gifted a poppy, with Manchester Airport making a contribution to the Royal British Legion on guests’ behalf.
Around 30 airport staff volunteered to help out across the two days, ensuring that older residents of Woodhouse Park had the chance to come together as a community, making new friends and memories.
Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said: “It was fantastic to see Autumn Leaves so well-attended this year, and I would like to thank all of our colleagues who volunteered their time to make this event happen.
“We are incredibly proud to play our part in bringing our neighbouring communities together, improving people’s lives and ensuring they share in the benefits of having a major international airport nearby.”
Autumn Leaves is part of a wider programme of outreach work that sees all airport colleagues given two days of company time per year to volunteer in the community. The airport’s Community Trust Fund, which is celebrating its 25th year, donates up to £100,000 per year to good causes, and the Airport Academy, a project run in partnership with Trafford College, helps the long-term unemployed and those in need of additional support to hone their skills and gain work at the airport.
To find out more visit https://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/community/.