Local Bikers Rev Up Memories For Care Home Residents

A care home in Lincolnshire has struck a chord with its residents thanks to a surprise visit from the local biking community.

Meadows Park care home in Louth welcomed a group of bikers to its grounds, after staff discovered that many residents either had a love of motorcycles, or fond memories of life on the road.

Thanks to staff at the home who arranged the activity, residents were invited to get up close, sit on the motorcycles and chat with the bikers, sparking vivid memories and, in some cases, creating brand new ones.

For 92-year-old Mike Stones, the visit brought back motoring memories of his youth. He recalled riding his 1949 BSA 250 to and from his apprenticeship, as well as owning a 1950 Royal Enfield, both bought by his father.

Mike said, “The familiar smells of the bikes instantly took me back.”

Whilst 78-year-old resident, June Parish had never sat on a bike before, that didn’t stop her, saying, “Come on, get on, let’s go!”

84-year-old, Hilda Bell, shared how her love story began on two wheels, with her boyfriend and later her husband who would regularly pick her up from work on his motorcycle. She remembered how they were also regulars at Cadwell Park, where they spent weekends watching the races as devoted fans.

Being surrounded by bikes throughout her adult life, 81-year-old, Sue Smith said, “My very first boyfriend rode a Royal Enfield with drop handlebars.”

“Then I met my husband who was a lifelong fan of classic bikes. He would head out in a group of eight to Cadwell and Silverstone to watch the racing.”

91-year-old Iris Todd recalled travelling in her husband’s sidecar in the 1950s, making trips from Liverpool to Nottingham to visit family. Wearing a leather helmet, she laughed as she remembered feeling “very silly” at the time.

Commenting on the visit, home manager, Kelly Coulthard, said, “It was incredible to see the smiles on everyone’s faces. The energy was electric and really reflected the personality of our home and residents. The residents loved exploring the bikes, sitting on them and chatting with the bikers.

“It took many of them straight back to their younger years. There was so much laughter and joy throughout the day – it wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for our fabulous team who arranged the event – it’s something we’ll all remember for a long time and definitely do again.