Back of the net! Cheadle care home makes football fan’s dream come true

A resident at a care home in Cheadle has had his long-held wish fulfilled with a pitch-perfect outing to the stadium of his favourite football club.

When the team at Care UK’s Abney Court, at Abney Hall Park on Manchester Road, heard about lifelong Manchester United fan Max Gillaspy’s dream to step foot inside the iconic Old Trafford, they set about giving him the full fan experience.

Max’s love for football and for the Red Devils began in childhood. One of his fondest memories is watching Manchester United play for the first time with his father and close friend, cheering on his favourite player, George Best, from the stands. In his spare time, Max could often be found having a kickabout with his friends.

Decades later, the 88-year-old’s passion is still going strong and is something he shares often with fellow residents and the care home team. 

On his special day, Max was treated to an unforgettable tour of the football club: walking through the stadium, soaking up the history and reliving treasured memories.

A particularly meaningful moment for Max was paying his respects to the players who tragically lost their lives in the Munich air disaster in 1958.

Max said: “The visit brought back fond memories. Going to the memorial to pay my respects to the players was very special to me.” 

Max’s experience was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, in which each care home encourages residents to put forward their dreams, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new.

Zoe Smart, Home Manager at Abney Court, said: “We are always looking for ways to make residents’ wishes come true. So when Max expressed his dream to visit Old Trafford, we had to make it a reality.

“Seeing the smile on Max’s face throughout the trip was truly priceless. It was a special day filled with joy, excitement and a few proud United moments!

“A big thank you to the club and the wonderful team at Abney Court for making the day so memorable. It was a joy to be part of it.”

Abney Court provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to help residents lead enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the home has its very own café, cinema and hair and beauty salon, with plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation. It offers a comprehensive programme of themed events and group activities.