Oxford’s pensioners now have a date for their annual get- together.

The Oxford Annual Pensioners’ Tea Party has been held every year since 1936, usually in January.

Last year’s event had to be scrapped when unexpected heavy snowfalls made it too dangerous for over 70s to make their way to the party, forcing it to be rescheduled for last April.

But the revellers enjoyed being able to go home while it was still light so much that organisers have once again decided to lay on this year’s event in April.

The shindig was first held 75 years ago as a simple treat for the city’s elderly.

The first outing was a trip to the cinema for a few people, but over the years numbers have steadily increased and at one point the event had to be spread over two days such was its popularity.

Dwindling numbers over recent years have led organisers to drop it back down to a one-day event to limit the amount of food wastage.

Organiser Mo Tweney said the committee had now confirmed the party will be held on April 14, at the Town Hall in St Aldate’s.

Mrs Tweney said: “The tickets will include the usual meal, free raffle ticket, and entertainment.

“Every year the town hall very kindly let us have the room for free.

“We simply couldn’t put it on any more if they did not.

“We used to hold the party over two days but we were wasting quite a lot of food in the end – so found one day works much better.”

Last year about 350 people enjoyed tea, followed by a raffle and entertainment.

Pensioners can expect ham, jacket potatoes and salad, followed by cake and ice cream. There will be tea and coffee, and everyone who attends the party will be sent home with a goodie bag filled with provisions, including tins of food, cake, and small gifts.

Mrs Tweney added: “We hope this year’s event will be as well attended as last year’s.”

Tickets go on sale at the Town Hall on Tuesday April 5.