High Wycombe care home makes football fan’s dream come true

A resident at a care home in High Wycombe has had his long-held wish fulfilled with a pitch-perfect outing.  

When the team at Care UK’s Ridley Manor, in Lane End, heard about football fan Danny Lane’s desire to get back in the stands, they set out to fulfil his dream. 

Danny’s love for the beautiful game began in his childhood, supporting Chelsea all his life. He shared his love for football with his father and daughter and has visited Stamford Bridge many times to celebrate his team. 

Decades later, the 81year-old’s passion for football still burns strong and is something he shares often with fellow residents and the care home team. 

On his special trip, Danny was joined by his daughter Jo, three friends from Ridley Manor and members of the care team for a day out to watch Wycombe Wanderers at Adams Park.

Although Wycombe Wanderers finished the game 2-1 to Bradford City, Danny had a wonderful time immersed in the energy of the crowds. To make the day even more unforgettable, they were given a special shoutout before kick-off.

Danny said: “I had a great time, the atmosphere was fantastic just a shame they didn’t win!” 

The visit was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to put their dreams forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new. From flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small for the team to try to grant.

Estelle Adriaans, Home Manager at Ridley Manor, said: “We are always looking for ways to make residents’ wishes come true. So when Danny expressed his desire to attend a football match, we had to make it a reality.

“Seeing the smile on Danny’s face throughout the trip was truly priceless. It was a special day filled with joy and excitement – and he couldn’t stop talking about it for the rest of the week!

“A big thank you to the club and the wonderful team at Ridley Manor for making the day so memorable. It was fantastic to be part of it.”

Ridley Manor provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, including a cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.