With the Olympics now upon us, a local care home kicked off the summer of sport with its very own version of the Games.
Residents and team members at Care UK’s Parsons Grange, on Westall Street, brought Paris to Shinfield on Monday, July 22 as they were joined by the community for a special day of sporting fun.
The event came as Parsons Grange joined The Big Care UK Sports Day, which has seen over 130 Care UK homes across the UK hosting sports days for the local community and showcasing what life in a care home is really like.
Guests at Parsons Grange could soak up the sporting atmosphere and had the chance to win their own gold medals with an afternoon of fun and games, including egg-and-spoon races, tug of war and other Sports Day classics.
The home also hosted a special Q&A session with Parsons Grange resident and former Reading FC footballer Rod Thornhill, who shared his sporting memories.
Rod, who was known to his team members as Spider, enjoyed a hugely successful career with Reading FC – making over 2,200 appearances and scoring 23 goals.
Rod, 82, said: “I do miss the cheer of the crowd and playing in a team. I’m really enjoying this year’s Olympics as it’s always good to cheer on others.”
Along with fun and games, visitors enjoyed live entertainment and a traditional summer barbecue cooked by the home’s talented head chef.
Rozina Ali, Home Manager at Parsons Grange, added: “It was lovely to welcome the community to join in with our sporting celebrations and great to see Rod immersing himself in the games and sharing fond memories from his past.
“We are part of a strong community here in Shinfield, and days like this are a fantastic way to bring us all together for a little healthy competition and to celebrate this year’s summer of sport, all while showcasing exactly what life is like at Parsons Grange.
“There was plenty of laughter and enjoyment for all involved and it was great to see residents meet and mingle with lots of new faces while keeping active. We’re certainly ready to enjoy the Olympics now!”
To find out more about The Big Care UK Sports Day, visit: careuk.com/care-uk-sports-day
For more information on Parsons Grange, please call Customer Relations Manager Claire Usher on 0118 391 3294, or email claire.usher@careuk.com
For more general information, visit careuk.com/parsons-grange
