A SPECIAL interactive area board meeting in Melksham was deemed a success after 70 residents turned out for the event which aimed to hear the views of pensioners in the town.

The meeting, which was held on July 9, gave elderly residents the opportunity to talk about the services available for them and what they'd like to see provided in the future.

Discussions were also held on what people felt the barriers were for them accessing services and taking part in activities. This included issues such as transport and awareness of activities and services available.

There was also the chance for attendees to nominate an older peoples champion and a champion for carers – these individuals will represent older people and carers at area board meetings and other meetings with council officers.

A full report will be produced following the meeting which will outline the key outcomes and this will be submitted at the next Melksham Area Board for consideration.

Melksham Area Board chairman Jonathon Seed said: “I’d like to thank everyone for attending this special meeting and making such worthwhile contributions. We had some really constructive discussions and they have certainly given us some food for thought.

“We want the views of older people in our community to be represented and these types of meetings, and the plans we have going forward, will certainly help with that.”

Nominations for champions should be submitted to the Community Area Manager, Rhys Schell at rhys.schell@wiltshire.gov.uk in time for the next area board meeting which is on September 9.