June 11, 2024
DurhamGate Celebrates D-Day 80th Anniversary
on Care Homes, Homepage Trio, News, Resident Stories, Staff, The DurhamGate, The DurhamGate - VacanciesResidents of The DurhamGate Care Home were treated to a spectacular performance by their very own Front of House Manager, Samantha, during a special indoor ‘street party’ celebrating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Samantha, who has a professional background as a singer, took the stage in authentic 1940s attire, evoking memories of the era for the delighted residents. Reflecting on the event, she said, “It was an honour to perform for my residents for such a special event and to hear the stories they have to tell about their connections to the day itself back in 1944.”
On her impressive repertoire, Samantha added “In the past I worked professionally as a singer and performed at a lot of 1940’s events including a gala performance celebrating Vera Lynn’s 100th birthday with Scarborough Spa Orchestra, but this is the first time our residents have seen me in my 1940’s outfits, it caused quite a stir, they loved it!”
The event gave residents an opportunity to reminisce about their loved ones who took part in the World War II Operation Overlord.
One of the residents, Norah, aged 96, shared a touching story about her cousin who served in the Navy. She recalled with pride his vital role, in charge of landing a vessel and getting everyone to shore.
Similarly, Renee, also 96, remembered her brother who served in the medical corps. Although he rarely spoke about the battle, she poignantly remembered him telling their mother, “I wasn’t religious, but I prayed that day.”
The atmosphere at The DurhamGate Care Home, part of Adore Care Homes, was filled with nostalgia and camaraderie as residents enjoyed an indoor street party. The catering team went above and beyond to create a beautiful afternoon tea, a quintessentially British tradition.
Adding to the authentic wartime ambiance, Samantha, dressed up in true 1940’s style. One resident, Margaret, was so impressed by Samantha’s traditional Victory Rolls hairstyle, she asked to have her own hair styled the same way.
Family members also appreciated the event, Jill Windsor, niece of a resident, shared these kind words, “That was an absolutely fantastic afternoon, and we were over the moon to be part of it. The food was beautifully presented and delicious as per usual, but the star of the show was Samantha, what an incredibly beautiful voice and person she is. What a talent. Always consistently happy and welcoming.”
Samantha’s performance was particularly touching for Jill, who added, “My aunt Elizabeth who is suffering with dementia was literally brought to life. A joy to see and brought a tear to my eye. Thank you to Karen, Samantha and all the carers for their hard work and kind natures.”
The DurhamGate Care Home’s event honouring the 80th anniversary of D-Day was more than just a party; it was a tribute to the resilience and bravery of the Greatest Generation. The event not only honoured the past but also created new memories for the residents and staff alike.
May 30, 2024
Durham care home celebrates FA Cup Final with special nod to former Newcastle United player
on Care Homes, Homepage Trio, News, Resident Stories, The DurhamGate, The DurhamGate - VacanciesResidents 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.