87-year-old Poole care home resident returns to the rugby pitch

An 87-year-old ex-rugby player was delighted when he had the opportunity to return to the pitch.

When the team at The Potteries care home, on York Road, discovered it was resident Bob’s wish to attend a rugby match again, they knew exactly who could help making his wish a reality.

Bob, who used to play for Oldfield Boys School, Bath, in the 1950s, attended the Poole vs Bournemouth match on Saturday 23^rd March – but that wasn’t it for his surprise trip out.

After hearing of Bob’s wish from Lifestyle Lead Joanne Da Silva, Poole Rugby Club organised for a very special day. Bob met the players ahead of kick-off, where he received a shirt, complete with the number that he’d used when playing, before walking out onto the pitch alongside the Poole team. 

After watching the match from the best seats in the house, Bob and the care team members were also treated to a special two course lunch with real ale, organised by the rugby club, in the clubhouse with the players – which left him feeling like the real man of the match. 

Speaking about his special day, Bob said: “I was over the moon! You wouldn’t think I lived in a care home with what I get to do. It was a shame that Poole lost by only three points, it was a close game.

“It felt great being on the pitch again and brought back so many wonderful memories.”

Joanne Da Silva, Lifestyle Lead at The Potteries, added: “Here at The Potteries, we are always looking for new and exciting ways to support residents to lead fulfilling lives, and helping Bob relive his rugby days was a wonderful opportunity to do just that.

“When we heard that Bob would like to get back on the pitch, we reached out to Pool Rugby Club to ask for their help in making Bob’s wish come true. We were thrilled when Poole Rugby Club not only organised tickets for the match, but also a special lunch, meet and greet and a shirt too!

“Bob has had a smile on his face since we returned and has loved showing fellow residents and team members his signed shirt. It was a brilliant day, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to Poole Rugby Club for helping us to make Bob’s wish come true.”

The Potteries has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives in a luxury environment. The home provides full-time residential care, nursing care, dementia care and respite care and also boasts plenty of space – both indoors and out, for relaxation and recreation.