TEA and cake brought together two generations when young people from a York youth homelessness charity hosted an afternoon tea for older guests.

The party, which took place at the charity SASH's offices in Walmgate, ended with the young people receiving a round of applause from their guests.

SASH spokeswoman Clare Usher said the nine visitors were all regulars at monthly tea parties arranged by Contact the Elderly, a national charity which worked to alleviate loneliness in older people.

"The group gets together each month for a chance to chat over tea, sandwiches and cake, on what is for many the loneliest day of the week," she said.

"Four young people, aged between 17 and 22, helped to bake the cakes, prepare the sandwiches and serve tea to their guests."

SASH operations manager, Adele Coupe, said that young people helped by the charity's Supported Lodgings scheme took part in an 'Active' programme, which got them involved in volunteering, outdoor activities and days out.

"When we heard about the tea parties, we thought it would be a good opportunity to get them involved in helping their local community and bring together different generations for an afternoon," she said.

"|It was also a great occasion for our young people to practise the baking skills we encourage them to learn as part of their preparation for living independently.”

Emily, 17, said: “We enjoyed making the cakes and I learnt how to make a lemon drizzle! It was an interesting experience and it was really nice to see our guests laughing.”

Janet Cooke, volunteer driver for the tea parties, said: "SASH provided a wonderful spread of afternoon tea for a group of York Contact the Elderly guests and their drivers. The hospitality was second to none. Well done, SASH, and thank you to the young people who helped."