PRIMARY pupils and elderly and disabled residents have struck up a bond by sharing stories with each other.

Youngsters from St John’s Primary, in Barrhead, teamed up with members of the Barrhead and Neilston Disabled Forum (Band F) as part of Corra Foundation’s People in Place programme.

The aim of the initiative is to offer an outlet for people interested in making change and building relationships to gather together in the Dunterlie area of the town.

Children from the school’s P6 and P7 classes spoke with and listened to their elder counterparts as the participants described what makes their community a happy place.

Pupils attended a series of workshops to brush up on their note-taking and interview skills before sharing stories they are reading as part of the First Minister’s Reading Challenge.

The pensioners then told tales about their own school experiences, favourite holiday destinations and time spent at Dunterlie Resource Centre.

When they weren’t regaling each other with stories, the children and Band F members took time to enjoy some mince pies.

Laura Mathieson, People in Place community co-ordinator, said: “Many thanks to the Band F group and to the staff and pupils at St John’s for bringing fantastic energy and enthusiasm to the project.

“This story-sharing experience emerged from adults having an interest in sharing local knowledge and young people seeking new ways to engage with storytelling.”

“There was a recognition by all involved that there was a lack of opportunity to get to know our neighbours, the individuals and groups in our community.

“It has been a privilege to support the creation of opportunities for partnership working and making connections in Dunterlie and I look forward to developments in 2018.”

Corra Foundation has been working in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council’s Communities Team and the area’s residents and organisations to find out what is important to people in Dunterlie.

Several activities have been taking place at Dunterlie Resource Centre, including cookery taster sessions and knitting and crochet classes, which meet on Fridays from 1-3pm.

Such projects will continue into the New Year, during which organisers hope to set up a baby and toddler group among others.

For more information about Corra Foundation, the People in Place programme or to get involved, contact Laura on 07867500751 or email laura@corra.scot.