Hartismere Place marks the 65th anniversary of rock ‘n’ roll

Hartismere Place threw the 1950s-themed celebration to mark the 65th anniversary of the launch of the record Rock Around the Clock, widely considered Britain’s first rock ‘n’ roll anthem. 

To celebrate, the home hosted a classic car show, with a selection of vehicles from the East Anglian Practical Classics Club, and enjoyed live entertainment from Beaten Track, who played everyone’s favourite 1950s hits. 

The team dressed up in 50s-style outfits and transformed the café into a retro ice cream parlour serving popular food from the rock ‘n’ roll era. Residents and care team also raised £144 to donate to Eye Opportunity, a group that supports children with additional needs, following recent break-ins at its support centre located near the care home.

The nationwide initiative, launched by Care UK, encouraged its care homes across the country to get together and host rock ‘n’ roll-themed events to mark this iconic anniversary. As well as having fun, the events were the perfect opportunity for residents to reminisce about their younger years and share memories associated with the 1950s.

Abhilash Gopi, home manager at Hartismere Place, said: “We had a fantastic day stepping back in time with everyone to mark the 65th anniversary of Rock Around the Clock, and the residents really enjoyed sharing their memories from this era.

“Singing and dancing can be a powerful reminiscence activity, and our event certainly brought back a lot of memories, as many residents witnessed the birth of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1950s. It was great to hear their stories – and even learn a dance move or two!

“Not only did we get the chance to enjoy a fantastic event, but we’re proud to have fundraised for a great cause. We were shocked to hear of the targeted break-ins at the Eye Opportunity group and wanted to help our neighbours, and the children that the group works so hard to support. Following the success of the Rock Around the Clock event, we’re planning to host more fundraising activities, and we can’t wait to invite the local community to our home once again.”