Birthday Surprise Makes Care Home Resident’s Dream Come True

Marjorie Basford, a resident at Elm House residential care home in Cheshire, celebrated her 87th birthday in style as staff at the home surprised her with a ride around the picturesque town of Nantwich in a majestic horse-drawn carriage.

Once Marjorie boarded the carriage that was waiting for her outside the Minster Care-run home on Pillory Street, she enjoyed a glass of birthday bubbles while being chauffeuredaround historic Nantwich before taking a trip down the River Weaver to watch the swans in the sunshine.

The surprise was organised by Activities Coordinator Mandy Robinson, who knew of Marjorie’s long-held dream of riding in a horse and carriage and got in touch with a local stable to make her wish come true.

Marjorie, who has lived at Elm House for nearly eight years,commented: “I have wanted to ride in a horse-drawn carriage for many years now, ever since I visited Blackpool and saw the horses and carriages lined up along the promenade. When I saw the horse waiting in front of the home I couldn’t believe it was for me!

“One of my favourite things about the day was feeling like a queen when I saw everyone waving at me. It was wonderful to ride around Nantwich in such lovely weather, and I’d like to say thank you to Mandy for making my birthday feel so special.”

Mandy Robinson, Activities Coordinator at Elm House, added: “Marjorie is a wonderful lady who loves a good chat and getting involved in activities in the home. It was a pleasure to be able to make her birthday extra special and fulfill her wish of riding in a horse-drawn carriage. Everyone at Elm House is delighted that she enjoyed her surprise and would like to wish her many happy returns.”