Golden Oldies are 'old romantics'

The Golden Oldies, the singing and dancing group from that proved ‘age is only a number’, entertained fellow residents, friends and staff at a special Valentine’s event.

The Golden Oldies was formed at the end of 2009 by four fun-loving residents who wanted to spread some joy at neighbouring care homes by taking their act on tour. Young at heart Kitty Parr, 104; Ivy Robinson, 88; Jean Simm, 87; and Brenda Coleridge, 84, have since recruited some new residents to join their group, including 91 year-old singer, Nora Byrne, and 85 year-old former ballroom dancer, Bill Innes. Performing at Warrington care home, Holcroft Grange to entertain guests at the home’s Valentine’s party, the group was accompanied by professional band, Frank and Frank.

Christine Carroll, the dedicated Activities Coordinator at Holcroft Grange, who has taken on the role of tour manager for the Golden Oldies, has been helping the ladies to rehearse ahead of the special event. She comments: “There has been such a wonderful response to the Golden Oldies since the group gave their debut performance just before Christmas and they’re looking forward to performing at nearby CLS care homes. The group has a few new members now as other residents wanted to join in the fun.”

The Golden Oldies wanted to do something special for their own home to celebrate Valentine’s Day, so Christine invited a professional band to come along to provide background music while the group sang along, danced and played musical instruments. 100-year old arts and crafts enthusiast, Olive Cook, took charge of decorating the home with handmade love hearts and paper flowers.

Robert Black, Managing Director of charitable organisation, CLS Care Services, which heads up Holcroft Grange as well as 28 other CLS homes in Warrington, Wigan and Cheshire, recently attended one of the Golden Oldies’ performances to show his support for the group. He comments: “I think it’s great. The Golden Oldies reflect what we aim to achieve at all of our homes – a friendly, fun and sociable atmosphere where residents can enjoy life and feel part of a community.

“All of our homes enjoy active social calendars. Whether you’re 80, 90 or 104 – there’s something for everyone. Each home has a dedicated Activities Coordinator who is highly trained to tailor activities programmes around residents’ interests, needs, abilities and fitness levels. Residents can participate in as little or as many activities as they wish or feel comfortable with, and those who do join in often feel a sense of achievement.”