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Handy help for old
There aren't many 'firsts' you can chalk up when you are 87 and have led a busy, active life.
So for Bet Ingham, the hands-on experience of her first manicure was a double delight.
"It's lovely," she said. "I'd recommend it. Never in my life have I had a manicure before. It's such a treat."
Bet, of Sunnyhurst Avenue, Marton, was full of praise for student beautician Sarah Lyon, 17, who was working her magic with treatments to ease stiffening joints, soften skin, shape nails and to pretty them up with a final flourish of polish.
"She's lovely to talk to," said Bet. "All the girls are."
Bet and other elderly people using the Tuesday Age Concern drop-in centre at Aysgarth Court Community Centre, Marton, have been enjoying Pampered Palms sessions with students from Blackpool and The Fylde College's School of Beauty and Related Therapies, Ansdell.
The students, just completing their one-year NVQ1, an introduction to the beauty therapy industry, were at Aysgarth Court to get some first-hand practical experience.
"As a college we like to encourage learners to take part in activities within the community," said lecturer and course leader Rachaelle Leitch.
"I contacted Age Concern to see if we could work them because these treatments are particularly suitable for people with arthritis.
"For the students, working with people in this way gives them practical experience and helps develop their communication skills. they have to adapt to different situations and client needs, just as they would in a salon."
Hilda Brown, 74, of Dunsop Court, South Shore, was enjoying a chat with student Diana Cairns, 18, who was giving her hands the treatment.
"I've never had a manicure before and it feels very good," she said.
May McCrea, 88, of Grizedale Court, Blackpool, was loving every minute of the experience. A paraffin wax treatment was working wonders to help ease the pain of rheumatism.
"This is a wonderful treat from these girls. It makes you feels you are not one of the forgotten people!" she said.
Lauren Torkington, 17, was looking after May. "Giving these treatments is relaxing for us as well," she said.
Only one man at the centre was brave enough to give it a try -retired painter and decorator Sidney Huddart, who is in his 80s, has worked with his hands all his life.
Crystal McGuire, 19, applied a paraffin wax treatment , followed by a hand massage and nail shaping. "It's very nice indeed," said Sidney, who lives in Marton.
elizabeth.gomm@blackpoolgazette.co.uk
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Weather for Blackpool
Monday 13 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 30 mph
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