A CHARITY which supports and campaigns for old people is celebrating 40 years in the borough today.

Age Concern Bromley celebrated the event with a poetry recital, music and a large cake.

Initially the charity was set up to make life easier for people aged 50 and over.

The charity provides a range of services including giving emotional and practical support to older people, their relatives and carers.

It also campaigns on issues which impact on the lives of older people such as pensions and heating costs.

Former mayor Bertha James was the charity's first chairman in 1965.

The charity's director Maureen Falloon said: "We aim to promote the well-being of all older people in the community.

"We value older people and believe later life should be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience."

Age Concern in the UK began as a post-war national committee looking at the welfare of older people.

The national and independent local charities adopted the name Age Concern in 1971 and grouped together as a federation in 2000.

Bromley's director was the London region chair until last year.

Age Concern Bromley is always looking for new volunteers.

Call 020 8315 1850 for information about becoming a volunteer.