Historic Hendon Hall Brings 1966 World Cup Spirit to Care Home Open Week
Residents at Signature at Hendon Hall – the former hotel where England’s 1966 World Cup squad stayed – welcomed guests for a special screening event celebrating England’s historic victory as part of this year’s Care Home Open Week celebrations.
The event, which took place in the home’s ‘66 Bar, brought together residents, relatives and football fans to relive the iconic 1966 World Cup final through personal memories, memorabilia and match highlights. It forms part of Care Home Open Week (15th – 21st June), the national initiative led by Championing Social Care, encouraging care homes across the UK to open their doors to local communities.
Among those who shared their memories of the day was resident Edward Cohen, who attended the 1966 World Cup final at Wembley after receiving a ticket through family connections. Edward was just 12 rows from the front as England secured their historic victory over West Germany.
Recalling the atmosphere, Edward said, “As we went into extra time, the atmosphere in the stadium was feverish. We all went wild as the crowd rushed onto the pitch, even though there were still two minutes to play. When the final whistle blew, everyone surged onto the pitch again – England had won the World Cup.”
Stephanie Bowie, Director of Sales & Marketing at Signature Senior Lifestyle, said:
“Bringing this event to life at Hendon Hall felt incredibly special given the home’s unique connection to the 1966 World Cup. Seeing residents, families and the local community come together to share memories, stories and laughter perfectly reflects the warmth and sense of community we are so passionate about at Signature Senior Lifestyle.”
The afternoon featured a highlights screening of the match, a World Cup-themed quiz and resident storytelling, alongside a filmed contribution from former England ball boy Neil Rioch. The full match was also screened in the home’s cinema room.
The event helped showcase the important role care homes play in bringing communities together and creating meaningful experiences for care home residents – a key focus of Championing Social Care’s Care Home Open Week campaign.
This year’s Care Home Open Week theme celebrates the spirit of the World Cup – recognising the imminent kick off of the global football tournament – encouraging homes to host sporting, social and community events that highlight the warmth, connection and vibrancy of modern social care.
Signature at Hendon Hall, which operated as a hotel until 2018, retains strong links to the 1966 tournament. Its 66 Bar houses World Cup memorabilia and references throughout the home, including Jules Rimet Avenue and Pickles Way.
