Bingley Care Home Ends Pride Month In Style With A Fabulous Drag Performance

Duchess Gardens Care Centre in Bingley had a fabulous finale to its Pride month celebrations with a party and musical entertainment from very a special drag performer.

Miss Bonnie, who is the alter ego of the home’s activities co-ordinator Paul Wilson, sang classic songs from Shirley Bassey, Dolly Parton, Sister Act and Cher, bringing laughs, smiles and joy to the residents.

The celebration was part of the home’s events to acknowledge staff and residents who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Staff and residents dressed up in support of the pride event and residents participated in making a brightly decorated cake.

Helen Lord, manager at Duchess Gardens Care Centre, said: “At Duchess Gardens, we pride ourselves in being a vibrant part of the community, so we were delighted to celebrate Pride month in style.

“Paul’s Miss Bonnie performance was amazing. He has such a great range of songs, and everyone was engaged and singing along. I hope we’ll have some more visits from Miss Bonnie during the rest of the year.

“We have a few members of the staff who are LGBTQ+ and we want to make sure they know they are loved and are part of our family.”

Stanley Wood, 77, a resident at Duchess Gardens Care Centre, said: “When I was young, being gay was taboo, and I think that must have made a lot of people feel sad and devalued. I think we’re all better off now we can talk about it openly and celebrate with each other

“I also think any occasion where we can sing and eat cake is brilliant. I can’t wait for the next one!”