London calling for Bourne Tai chi guru

A Morton engineer turned two-time British Tai chi champion and teacher was in the heart of the corridors of power for an event designed to look at ageing in a different way.

Ray Pawlett, 50, and his father Alan, in his late 70s, were invited to the Houses of Parliament on October 30, as part of Ray’s work teaching Tai chi to dementia suffers.

“It all came about through my work with Dementia Support South Lincs and I do Tai chi sessions for those in Bourne,” said Ray.

“There’s a real buzz around there - everybody was really friendly.

“What it reminded me of was Hogwarts.”

Ray was invited to an event on the terrace overlooking the River Thames at the Palace of Westminster for an event called ‘Thinking about ageing differently’, organised by the charity, Action for Elders.

He teaches Tai chi throughout the week to those who want it, especially the elderly.

“I have been doing tai chi now for 30 years and was a British Champion,” explained Ray.

“I gave up a career in engineering to become a full-time Tai chi instructor.

“There was somebody who knew me and asked if I would be interested in working with people with dementia.

“My Granny had it so I know a lot about it.

“I met them and we went from there.

“Since that meeting in November 2011, I don’t think there have been many Wednesdays where we haven’t had a session.

“Tai chi is good for people with dementia because it’s adaptable to the needs of each person.

“If you’re working with someone, it’s really important that’s appropriate to them.

“It’s great for circulation and better breathing and reduction of stress.

“It not only becomes only a form of exercise but also a social thing as well.

“It combats loneliness which is a huge benefit.”