Northampton’s unlikely TikTok stars prove age is just a number

A group of outgoing elderly Northampton friends has spread some love online after going viral with a message on TikTok

The online stars from Affinity Day Care C.I.C. became a viral hit after a video they shared a warm message with the world after an afternoon of filming.The video, which has been viewed more than 410,000 times, can be seen here.The friends, who meet at St. Luke's Community Centre in Duston, have been trying a variety of activities since the centre opened in December 2020. Everything from pancake flipping and giant Jenga, to balloon volleyball.

When Affinity Day Care C.I.C. director Fern Overton introduced the centre to TikTok, the clients couldn’t wait to give it a go.

So, for Valentine’s day, the group wrote words on a board out of rice that had been dyed red. They held the board in front of them and threw the rice in the air. Capturing it on video in slow motion meant the words could still be read. The message was simple: ‘We love you.’

One of the stars, Irene, said of the video: “It was just what I needed after this year. Just coming to Affinity every week is enough to lift my spirits but doing so many fun activities that are different and a bit silly is even better.”

The video has been viewed more than 410,000 times, a staggering amount on a social media platform aimed specifically at young people.

Director Fern said: "We view later life as a celebration and spaces that are traditionally for younger people can be used and enjoyed by everyone. Seeing older people on their feet, having fun and smiling is unusual, especially on social media, so it’s something that’s captured people’s attention.

"Our mission is to show that older people can and do live vibrant, full lives. Older people are just like younger people and deserve to be valued and admired. I’m delighted to give our friends at Affinity the opportunity to enjoy day care which is different from the norm."