All revved up – Orpington care home surprises residents with classic car show

A care home in Orpington made two car fanatics’ wish to get back behind the wheel come true by bringing a car show to the home.

When lifelong car enthusiasts, Leslie Wheele, 83, and Terry Austin, 84, both residents at Care UK’s Foxbridge House, on Sevenoaks Road, told team members they wanted to get back behind the wheel of some classical cars – the team quickly got into gear.

As part of the wishing tree initiative, the team at Foxbridge House encourage residents to submit wishes, no matter how big or small, whether they’re related to something they’ve never been able to do, or something they’d like to do again. For Leslie and Terry, this involved hitting the gas and surprising them with a Triumph Stag and a GT6 Mk 3 outside their home. 

Leslie, who you will often find hidden behind his classical car books, was a regular to many car shows, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed – which was his favourite. 

On the day, Leslie and Terry each enjoyed a lap in the Triumph Stag and the GT6 Mk 3, leaving Leslie with tears of happiness. The two also got the opportunity to learn about the different car’s history and take a sneak peek under the hood at their engines.

Commenting on the surprise visit, Leslie said: “I have always loved cars since when I left school. I have had many cars over the years – although I never had a jaguar, which it was I always wanted!”

Terry added: “I loved my ride in the car – there’s nothing like a classic sports car.”

Stella Barnes, Home Manager at Foxbridge House, said: “Everyone enjoyed having the classic cars visit Foxbridge House – especially Leslie and Terry who loved every minute of their special day.

“Leslie and Terry have always shared fond memories of the classic cars they had in their younger years. We’re delighted that we were able to get them back into the driver’s seat and create a memorable afternoon full of reminiscence about their motoring days.

“We’re already looking forwards to putting our foot down and planning more ‘wheelie’ fun visits and trips that build on the resident’s interests.”

Foxbridge House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.