Christmas dinner events marked the launched of a charter outlining a series of pledges by service providers to the elderly in Waltham Forest.

More than a 1,000 people over 60 enjoyed a free festive feast, school choirs and bingo at four events across the borough last week.

The ten-point charter promises the council will ensure older people are “valued and respected”, and services keep them from harm.

It also pledges to respect people’s “autonomy and control” and take measures to tackle isolation.

The charter, developed by Waltham Forest council, volunteers and carers, was launched during an event at Leyton Orient’s stadium in Brisbane Road.

Victor Whittle, 70, from Highams Park, attended his second Christmas event in three years.

He said: “I’m pretty good at making friends and conversation – I don’t know any of the people on my table but we’ve had a laugh.

“I’ve kept them amused; I’ve told them all of my anecdotes – 70 years’ worth.”

Waltham Forest’s Older People’s Charter

• We will ensure that you are valued and respected

• We will ensure that services support you to remain as independent as possible and keep you from harm

• We will respect your right to autonomy and control

• We will make available and accessible the information that you need to make the best choices for you

• We will ensure that your views are respected and your carers’ commitments valued

• We will provide you with opportunities to be part of the local community

• We will ensure that services support you to feel safe

• We will work hard to ensure that you feel secure in all areas of your life, including advising on finances, accommodation and care

• We will ensure all care and support provided promotes health, wellbeing and a good quality of life

• We will act in your best interests at all times