More than 60 people came together to recognise the older generation in business and the wider community at a special event.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Irish dancing at the eventIrish dancing at the event (Image: Archant)

Hosted by Future MOLDS Communities and the Pennu Charity at the Barking Learning Centre on Friday last week, the idea was the brainchild of Chadwell Heath ward councillor Sade Bright.

Featuring a Charleston dancing session and a special BoxFit class, the group proved the borough’s older residents have an important role to play.

Barking and Dagenham Chamber of Commerce president Mark Bass insists the older generation should never be underestimated in business.

“Maturity and experience can really count for a lot,” he said. “Employers generally want that mix of young and old.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Irish dancing at the eventIrish dancing at the event (Image: Archant)

“Experience and knowledge are sometimes disregarded but ultimately they’re priceless and can’t be replicated.

“You need to have experience and build up a strong base of contacts over the years to be successful. A lot of people are coming back to work nowadays after retirement because they realise their skills and experience are still needed in the workplace.”

The special afternoon also featured a quiz and a dance competition while Sarah Robertson, 38, managing director of Future MOLDS Communities led the boxing and insists old age can be more of a barrier than some might think.

“It can cause issues, “ she explained. “A lot of people that attended the event don’t get out of the house that often so loneliness can be a real problem.

“A lot of community events and also businesses are aimed at younger adults so they can get excluded which is a worry.”