PEOPLE over 55 were the focus of a special conference in Basingstoke which put the spotlight on what is being done to help residents in their age bracket.

The event - which attracted more than 150 residents and took place at Queen Mary's College - also celebrated International Day for Older People.

Many people at the conference answered the call from Tommy Millar - the chairman of the new Older People's Forum - to join the group and ensure their voices continue to be heard on matters that affect them.

Having been elected at the first meeting of the forum just weeks before, Mr Millar told those attending: "It is important that you raise the issues that matter to you. The number of older people in the borough is growing and we have to be listened to and valued."

More than 130 local residents, key members of voluntary groups and representatives of service organisations met in October 2003 to thrash out the key priorities for the Local Strategic Partnership's (LSP) "Promoting Quality of Life for Older People in Basingstoke and Deane" strategy.

As one of the issues highlighted was ensuring older people have access to affordable, reliable public transport, this conference gave those attending the chance to get more information about the transport available in the borough.

Stalls were set up on everything from travel tokens and community transport schemes to bus timetables.

There was also a chance for older residents to win first-class rail tickets, courtesy of Virgin Trains and South West Trains, in a free prize draw for those attending on the day.

Cllr Laura James, Cabinet member for housing, health and homes, told the audience: "There is a lot to celebrate already, but I hope this time next year we will be able to come together to feedback on the real changes that have been made.

"It is important you take an active involvement and help shape the future of services in the borough."

Action plans are taking forward the key priorities in the strategy set by older residents themselves, including improving where they live, getting the care and support they need, staying independent, taking part in the community and enjoying life.

Martin Nurse, vice-chairman of the Basingstoke and Deane Local Strategic Partnership, highlighted the Oakridge Centre of Excellence for Older People project as an example of how Sentinel Housing Group, local authorities, health services and others are working in partnership to improve facilities and services for older people as an integral part of the housing regeneration scheme.

Local resident Bill Fergie spoke about his experience of living and maturing in the borough, saying: "There are now significant numbers of older people in the borough. Not only are we living longer, but we are staying healthier longer. We are a force to be reckoned with. This is why a partnership strategy for older people is needed."

Speaker David Martin, of the Government-sponsored initiative Better Government for Older People, added the national perspective. Older people, he said, were no longer seen as a "problem" just needing social care services.

He added: "Older people want the opportunity to have fun and enjoy life. They expect choice."