Flower power, flares and friendship were celebrated last week in Sheet as a Petersfield institution turned back the clock on its diamond anniversary.

Everything was groovy last Friday at the Half Moon as around 80 people raised a glass to 60 years of Age Concern Petersfield.

Beatlemania swept the US and BBC2 first appeared on our (mostly) black and white TV screens when the Winton House-based charity opened its doors in 1964.

The charity aims to “maximise the independence, wellbeing and quality of life” for people in their later years, through events, activities and initiatives like a lunch club, café, outings, door-to-door transport and courses.

And with people living longer and cost of living crisis still biting, their services are needed more than ever.

There was a poignant moment at their diamond anniversary party as the names of past and much-missed residents with close links to the charity were read out, while their pictures adorned a board of memories.

But while there was time to reflect, there was also time to party with live 60s music, best dressed competition and lashings of birthday cake.

“Mr Petersfield” also joined the party with the shiny suited David Weeks embellishing his hat to reflect the milestone.

“We invited David because he always adds a bit of razzmatazz, but we’re not letting him into the best dressed competition because he would obviously win,” said Sheridan Rocher, Manager.

“He said he didn’t want to stand out but with all the 60s clothing here today he won’t, for once.

“We don’t often get together like this so this has been the perfect opportunity. We’re really buoyant at the moment and we’re getting great feedback but we want to improve and do more.”

She added: “Who knows if we’ll do the same for our 75th?”