More than 130 Fed clients across north and south Manchester were treated to a high society tea party to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – with a surprise appearance by Her Majesty!

Traditional English delicacies of scones with cream, sandwiches, and a variety of teas were served on union jack napkins, plates, and saucers, with music from the seven decades of the Queen’s reign entertaining the gathering.

Each guest was treated to a glass of prosecco on arrival and the chance to pose with a life-size Queen Elizabeth cutout for a photographic memento of the afternoon.

Volunteer Services Manager, Juliette Pearce, was full of praise for her team.

“I don’t know of any other local organisation which organised such wonderful, inclusive parties for community clients to celebrate the Jubilee – and the Volunteer team worked flat out for weeks to make everything come together.

“The proof is in the pudding – one client told us how after the death of her husband she hadn’t been out very much in the last decade but following our party has asked for information about our next events as she would like to come.”

“That’s the real importance of our work.”

The Fed’s NextGen Project Coordinator, Danielle Jeffries was thrilled with the celebrations:

“The two parties we organised in north and south Manchester were smash hits! For some clients this was their only outing for the whole week, and they came to socialise with their friends and have a sing and dance.

“We arranged for volunteers to transport people to and from the parties, so no one had to miss out on the celebrations and volunteers and Fed staff were on hand throughout to ensure everything ran smoothly.”

At Wicker Lane shul in South Manchester, Debbie Hilton delighted guests with a song-and-dance performance, while at Stenecourt shul Steven Pearman hosted a Royals-themed quiz and the crowd also enjoyed a sparkling performance by local favourites, Lemon Tree.

“It’s never easy organising two parties for such large numbers,” Danielle continued, “but the appreciation and thanks you get from clients makes every moment worthwhile. Seeing clients singing and on their feet dancing brings us so much joy!”

Anyone who would like more information about community events, such as Fed Coffee Stops, or would like support from The Fed’s Volunteer department can call 0161 772 4800.