Tony – a volunteer at Silsoe Horticultural Centre
At Silsoe Horticultural Centre, a special group of volunteers proves every day that age is no barrier to making a profound and positive difference. Gilly, Rosemarie, Phil, Dee, Chris and Tony – all mature adults – dedicate their time, energy and experience to supporting adults with learning difficulties.
Each volunteer brings a unique set of skills, life knowledge, and, importantly, a spirit of flexibility and initiative, helping to create a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone is celebrated for who they are.
For Tony, an obsessive gardener, the centre has not only allowed him to stay connected with his horticultural passion after moving to Silsoe but also provided the opportunity to give back. Through tasks that range from sowing and weeding to coaching in woodworking and retail skills, volunteers are integral to the day-to-day life and long-term success of the centre. They don’t just assist; they inspire.
Making an impact — on everyone
Volunteers are essential to the centre’s ecosystem. Their contributions extend far beyond completing tasks — they enhance the attendees’ experiences, fostering confidence, skill development, and a sense of achievement. Volunteers’ personalities are valued as their skills, creating an atmosphere rich in warmth, humour, and mutual respect.
Whether it’s Tony — now fondly known as “Tomato Tony” — nurturing fruit in the greenhouse or mentoring adults in the café, the influence of these older volunteers are visible in every aspect of the centre’s success. Tony even introduced a new practice, “tickling” apricot blossoms with a fine brush, significantly increasing the fruit yield, with sweet results sold in the centre's shop.
The impact flows both ways. Volunteers experience profound personal rewards: from friendships formed to the joy of shared successes. As Tony puts it: "Give, and you shall receive". This perfectly sums up the spirit of giving and gaining that defines volunteering at any age.
Age is just a number
With volunteer ages ranging from 65 to 85, these individuals demonstrate that contribution and community-building are truly ageless. Tony, who will celebrate his 80th birthday in October, proves every day that older volunteers bring not only experience and dedication, but an infectious enthusiasm that keeps everyone — attendees and volunteers alike — young at heart.
In a world that often underestimates the capabilities and societal value of older adults, the Silsoe Horticultural Centre stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, purpose and community spirit come together.
Tony’s message is clear and inspiring:
You can’t be too old to volunteer – volunteering keeps you young at heart – at any age.