Church Crookham care come hosts veterans’ lunch with special guests

 

A care home in Church Crookham hosted a memorable lunch for veteran residents with a special visit from Aldershot Football Club. 

Care UK’s Bourley Grange, on Bourley Road, invited members of the local football club to join veteran care home residents, who are lifelong fans of the club, for a special lunch. To return the favour, residents were invited to see the team play in action and enjoy an exclusive tour of the club’s football ground.

On the day, Aldershot FC members paid their respects to the residents for their service and everyone was treated to a three-course meal prepared by the home’s talented Head Chef. 

Residents had the opportunity to talk about their stories and memories of their time in the armed forces with the players, before sharing their medals and photos from their service. 

Veteran Bernard Potter, aged 94, and a resident at Bourley Grange, attended the lunch and shared memories from his days in the armed forces. Commenting on the afternoon, Bernard Potter, said: 

“In 1949 I joined the Royal artillery in Oystering, Shropshire, where I served for four years. From a small boy I have always supported the Shots, so it was a privilege to watch them play after many years. I enjoyed watching the game – especially with it being on Remembrance Sunday.”

Racquel Merdegia, General Manager at Bourley Grange, said: “It was wonderful to bring together veteran residents and players from Aldershot Football Club for this special lunch. 

“Here at Bourley Grange, we understand how important it is to honour the courage and dedication shown by these residents during their service. It was heartwarming to see them share their stories with the club’s members – something they were very excited to do. 

“Many of the residents are life-long supporters of Aldershot Football Club, so were thrilled to meet today’s players. They haven’t stopped talking about it since and are looking forward to seeing them in action when the new season kicks-off.”

Bourley Grange has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives in a luxury environment. The home provides full-time residential care, nursing care, dementia care and respite care.