Kidderminster resident makes waves on regional radio

A Kidderminster care home resident saw his wish to broadcast his love for a local radio come true. 

84-year-old Roy Darkes, a resident at Care UK’s Brook Court, on Oldnall Road, was walking on air when the home team arranged a surprise visit from BBC Hereford and Worcester presenter Malcolm Boydon – complete with a virtual tour of the studio. 

 

Roy, who was born in Bewdley, has always been an avid listener of BBC Hereford and Worcester. Over the years, he became a valued caller, appearing on various shows to discuss a range of community-related topics, and was well-known by journalists and listeners alike for his humorous and entertaining contributions. 

On the day, Roy was interviewed by presenter Malcolm Boyden, where they discussed their mutual love of radio before giving him a virtual tour of BBC Hereford and Worcester’s studio, in Brook Court’s own cinema. His story has also been included in Malcom’s daily morning show. 

Roy said: “This whole experience has brought back so many lovely, happy memories of when I used to call the radio station and take part in their debates. It was also lovely to hear that my voice is still regarded as ‘good for radio’ – thank you, Brook Court, for arranging this special moment.”

Gill Pratt, Home Manager at Brook Court said: “It was great to turn our home’s cinema into a broadcast studio for an afternoon to surprise Roy – his smile on the day said it all."

“When we first reached out to BBC Hereford and Worcester, we were amazed to find so many people who remembered Roy and his contributions over the years. It truly is testament to his charismatic personality and passion for his local community, which he showcased once more when he was interviewed by Malcolm."

“Here at Brook Court, we are always looking for new, innovative ways to engage with residents, and support them to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. Everyone at the home has heard Roy talk about his many contributions on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester, which is why we thought a virtual tour of the studio would make the perfect activity."

Brook Court is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The care home, which features 67 en-suite bedrooms, has been designed to enable its residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café.

To find out more about Brook Court, email Customer Relations Manager, Kay Mayes, on kay.mayes@careuk.com  or call on 01562 814 715.

For more general information visit careuk.com/brook-court.