Samantha Holden

Residents at a Durham care home came together last Saturday to celebrate the FA Cup final between Manchester United and Manchester City.

Although the majority of The DurhamGate Care Home residents are Newcastle United fans, the excitement for the final was unmistakable and one of the most enthusiastic supporters was Doreen Hughes, whose brother, Gordon Hughes, played for Newcastle United in the 1950s.

The home transformed its cinema room into a football arena, where residents enjoyed a pint (and the occasional cocktail) while watching the match on the big screen. The atmosphere was lively, with ice creams served at half time and a traditional pie and peas tea at the final whistle.

Doreen was rooting for Manchester City to win, as this would have increased Newcastle’s chances of qualifying for the UEFA Conference League. Doreen shares her avid support for Newcastle United with her brother Gordon Hughes, who played as a winger for the team between 1956 and 1963.

Hughes made a total of 143 appearances for ‘The Magpies’, scoring 19 goals. He was known for his speed and stamina, becoming a regular fixture over his four seasons spent playing at St. James’s Park.

Seated front and centre, Doreen shared her thoughts on the event: “It might not have been the outcome we wanted from the match, but what a way to watch it! I felt like I was on the pitch. Next time I’ll have to invite my brother to watch with me. He would love it!”

Other residents echoed Doreen’s sentiments, appreciating the opportunity to watch the match together with their families and friends. Joanna Stanford, the Lifestyle Manager at DurhamGate, expressed her delight at the success of the event: “It’s great that we have a space like this, where we can make a real event out of games like this. The only thing that would have made the day better would be if we had seen North Eastern teams in the final.”

Samantha, the Front of House Manager, added: “It’s been lovely to share the afternoon with the residents, watching the match on our cinema screen. As the home continues to grow, I can only imagine the atmosphere over the summer months as our residents cheer on England in the Euros!”

The celebration of the FA Cup final at The DurhamGate Care Home was more than just a viewing; it was a memorable experience, bringing residents together in communal joy and sporting camaraderie. With summer approaching, the home is eagerly anticipating more such events, particularly as the residents look forward to supporting England in the upcoming Euros.