Having a ball! Newbury care home hosts intergenerational world cup

Football fever officially hit a Newbury care home when it launched its very own intergenerational football tournament. 

Inspired by the Women’s World Cup, the team at Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, organised a special five-a-side game for residents and local youngsters. 

Up against some fierce competition from aspiring Newbury footballers, residents well and truly put their best foot forward in the match. With all players on top form, the game ended in a penalty shoot-out which saw the team at Winchcombe Place emerge victorious. 

95-year-old resident Joan Smith, who scored one of the three impressive goals for Winchcombe Place, said: “We’ve all been watching the World Cup this year and cheering on the England team, so it was brilliant to have a go ourselves. The children played wonderfully, but I still managed to get the ball in the net and score a goal!”

Shirley Summerbell, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, added: “Everyone here at Winchcombe Place has been enjoying watching the Women’s World Cup this year – which is why we decided to join in the excitement ourselves.

“Residents, team members and the children all had a great time letting their competitive sides run wild and the afternoon provided a wonderful opportunity for residents and the youngsters to share their favourite football moves and stories.

“A huge well done to Winchcombe Women’s team for their impressive win! I’d like to extend a big thank you to the team for organising such a fun-filled day – we’re all looking forward to the finals!”

Winchcombe Place is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.