A POP-UP masterclass was held in Stirlingshire to help launch GrandFest 2017 – the one day festival that celebrates the heritage skills of talented older people.

Rae Wilson, 76, gave students a chance to learn the art of preserve-making at Balfron High School.

Students were able to learn all the tips and tricks to make lemon curd, the ultimate treat to add onto toast.

She went through the different steps to make the topping from scratch and pupils were able to taste it before taking some home to share with their families.

Now in its third successive year, GrandFest returns to East London this year, proudly presented by charity Royal Voluntary Service.

Taking place on Sunday, June 18 the GrandMakers, all over 70 years old, will run masterclasses in their preferred skill, taking over nearby restaurants, shops and museums in the Spitalfields area.

Rae, from Milngavie, has volunteered for the charity for over 10 years and will be hosting preserve making master classes at the event.

She said: "I love making jams, jellies and chutneys.

"It concerns me that many of the skills older people possess are not being taught to the younger generations and are at risk of dying out.

"I was honoured to be given the opportunity to head down to Balfron High School to teach students to make lemon curd.

"I wanted to show them how to make one of the simplest preserves which I hope will inspire them to make it at home with their families."

Rae’s love for cooking began when she was 10-years-old, following her mother’s lead.

Being a war-time baby the only way she was able to have treats was from her mother baking jam and marmalade, which she really appreciated.

One of Rae’s passions is organising her local lunch club, a Royal Voluntary Service initiative for older people encouraging them to maintain a healthy social life.

Every Thursday she helps to prepare a two-course hot lunch for 30 people and also delivers food to older people who are unable to leave their homes.

Recently, Balfron Church Lunch Club reached its tenth anniversary and honorary guests included members from Stirling Council.

David McCullough, chief executive of the Royal Voluntary Service, said the organisation was pleased to announce GrandFest is back for a third consecutive year.

He said: "It is a great day full of festivities to celebrate older people and to highlight the importance of keeping active in later life.

"Rae has been part of GrandFest since the beginning, and we are delighted that she is able to share her preserve-making skills with the people of Stirlingshire and at our London event again this year."

For more information about GrandFest 2017 and to book a masterclass please visit: http://grandfest.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/