Teary Eyed Care Home Resident Enjoys Church Flower Festival

Residents from The Oaks Care Home, on Durban Street, attended the festival at Central Methodist Church, on Beaconsfield Street.

Elsie Patterson, who lives at the home, said: “I was close to tears because it brought back so many happy memories.

“I used to go to the festival with friends all the time but it has been so long. Then I saw them and we shared lots of cuddles and tears of happiness.”

The Flower Festival was opened by Blyth Mayor Councillor Adrian Cartie, who met with the residents during their visit.

One of those was Dennis Allen, who shared a joke with the Mayor about wanting to have his chain.

He said: “It was a lovely atmosphere and I was happy to send time getting to know our new activities coordinator Angela.”

Angela Hedley, a former carer at The Oaks Care Home who recently became activities coordinator, came up with the idea of taking the residents to the festival.

She said: “I was looking to find new links with the local community and saw a brochure advertising the event.

“The residents thoroughly enjoyed it and they all wanted to stay all day.”

Ann Mielnik, home manager, said: “It was lovely to hear Elsie had met up with friends she had not seen for a long time.

“We’re always looking to meet with community groups, take part in events or organise joint activities.”