The Havering Borough (London) Sports Development Team, run an annual, well supported 50+ Games event. The event has 2 main aims:

* To provide friendly, local competition for people already engaged in sports and activities.

* To encourage more sedentary residents to try and to take up an activity they would enjoy. 

In 2006 around 200 people took part in events such as short mat bowls, archery, table tennis, badminton, short tennis and bridge. Free 'Come and Try' events, supervised by a professional coach or instructor, in all of the above activities were provided as well as a swim session and blood pressure monitoring which proved very popular.

Having seen information on the Havering 50+ Games events, Thurrock Sports Development Team decided to run a similar event in Thurrock. The team had an Awards for All grant, which they were able to transfer from another event to be able to put on the Games. 

The organisation of the day was split into two sessions; 1 - 4pm aimed more at the over 65's and 5 - 8pm aimed more at 50 - 65's, although this was not exclusive. Events included archery, bowls, short tennis, badminton, rambling, jogging, aqua aerobics, various exercise classes, salsa and table tennis. Approximately 100 - 150 people attended the day, and evaluations received were extremely positive stating another similar event would be welcomed.

Learning Points 

* Thurrock received suggestions that the evening session needed to start and finish later as some people had trouble getting to some of the activities straight from work. This was the key learning point for the team for future events.  

* Ensure a wide variety of clubs and organisations are involved in the event.