A new monthly group for over 55s is opening at Shepton Mallet Paul Street Community Rooms run by Make the Sunshine in partnership with Somerset skills and Learning.

The group, which has been jointly funded by Somerset Skills and Learning and Somerset Community Foundation, will celebrate a different festival or season each month.

The first session launches on Thursday, the 18th of November, running from 10:30am until 12:30pm (with participants welcome to stay for tea and refreshments and craft after the session).

The launch session celebrates Diwali and participants will have the opportunity to meet Avtar Panesar, a professional Bhangra and Bollywood dancer. Avtar will share some artefacts and experiences from his Indian heritage and will also perform and teach a short element of dance. The group will also have the opportunity to create rangoli and explore some traditional Indian craft.

The emphasis will be on having fun and meeting new people and having new conversations - participants are welcome to come and join in as much or as little as you like. Sessions are free with an optional donation of £2 after the first session.

Upcoming Creative communities sessions include:

13th January - New Years Resolutions