A capacity crowd turned out for the annual seniors’ tea party yesterday.

Hundreds of seniors attended the government-organised event held at the Fairmont Southampton.

Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sport, said the tea was one of the “highlights on the Government’s calendar”.

She told attendees: “I can’t begin to tell you how thrilling it is to join you today.

“Today serves as an opportune time for the Government to thank you for your contribution to our society.”

Ms Foggo said that the needs of Bermuda’s seniors were “of paramount concern to us”.

She added: “This government remains committed to ensuring that all our seniors in Bermuda have access to the services needed to ensure they have comfortable and fulfilling lives during their golden years.

“You are the essence of our community and Bermuda is a better place because of your sacrifice and commitment.”

Ms Foggo said: “You are heroes to us all and I wish you continued prosperity well into the years ahead.”

Pupils from schools in the public and private sectors acted as wait staff for the event.

Those honoured at the event included:

Esther Bean — Special People’s Club

Marva Bridgewater — Joy Club

Myra Bristol — Fifty Plus Social Club

Beryl Broadley and Betty D. Reid — St George’s Seasons Seniors

Betty Brown — RAA Seniors’ Club St George’s

George Burt — Department of Communications and Cultural Affairs

Garline Butterfield — First Church of God

Hattie Ann Gilbert — Young at Heart

Pamela Greyson — Devonshire Seniors’ Circle Club

Vera Johnston — Sunshine Seniors Club

Sherlyn Jones — Blessed Seniors Fellowship

Cheryl King — Each One Teach One

Sylvia Lightbourne — Golden Hour

Helen Mateen — Special People’s Club

Myrtle Perinchief — Young At Heart

Bette Richardson — Mt Zion Seniors’ Circle

Joan Robinson — Sunshine Seniors Club

Mary Smith — Smiling Glee

Marlene Smith — Bermuda Public Services Union

Donna Thomas — Fifty Plus Social Club

Esme Williams — Bermuda Industrial Union Seniors

Melba Wilson — Happy Seniors

Wilma Yearwood — First Church of God