Coastal coach trip down memory lane for Sheffield care home residents

A COACH trip down memory lane was enjoyed by Sheffield care home residents during a day-long seaside sojourn.

For octogenarian sisters Pat and Barbara Lane, 86 and 82 respectively, the trip to Cleethorpes was their visit since childhood, shortly after the Second World War.

Barbara said: “There was not much there as that part of the coast had been shelled during the War. We were surprised to see how much had changed since then, with all the amusements and shops.”

The residents from The Laurels and The Limes Care Home, on Manchester Road, Broomhill, were among the almost two-dozen strong group to make the coach trip to the seaside town.

After several rounds of bingo, the group disembarked to a small downpour, before the sunshine broke through to give everyone a great day out.

The residents immediately started discussing their memories of visiting during their younger years, recalling childhood family trips, and remarking on how much it had changed.

The group then made a beeline for award-winning fish and chip restaurant Papa’s, located in an old dancehall on Cleethorpes Pier.

Stella Townsend, 87, said: “I’ve never been to Cleethorpes before but I had a grand time enjoying half a pint of lager with my fish and chips.”

Then it was time for an ice cream on the seafront followed by a visit to the arcade to play the 2p machines and a stop off at the gift shop for some rock candy and other trinkets.

For Gloria Raynor, 95, her favourite part of the trip was meeting residents from other Hill Care Group care homes who were also spending the day in Cleethorpes.

She said: “I enjoyed mixing with new people who enjoyed the trip as much as I did.”

Sophie King, home manager at The Laurels Care Home, said: “The residents loved the day out at Cleethorpes. Betty West kept saying how lovely it was that everyone had given up their day off to take them out.

“Days like this have a massive impact on the residents, lifting their spirits, reminding them of places they used to visit with their children and as children themselves, meeting new people, and just having a great time with their friends and family.

“You only need to hear them talking about the trip for hours, days, and weeks afterwards, see the smiles on their faces on the coach ride home, and watch them light up when they see the photos to see what an impact a trip like this can have.

“A huge thanks to all the staff who accompanied the residents to Cleethorpes. Many gave up their days off to come along and it really meant the world to our residents. They all had an amazing day.”