Waterlooville care home makes football fan’s dream come true

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

When the team at Care UK’s Pear Tree Court, on Portsmouth Road, heard about resident football fan Michael Benford’s desire to get back in the stands, they set out to fulfil his dream. 

Michael’s love for the beautiful game began in his childhood, supporting Stoke City, a club he has followed ever since. Growing up and having his own family, Michael has always shared his love for football with his son and daughter and has filled his room at Pear Tree Court care home with football memorabilia, including his favourite Stoke City blanket. 

Decades later, the 88-year-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, Michael was joined by his son Graham, daughter Karen, and the deputy manager at Pear Tree Court, Aaron Ballinger Manor, for a day out to watch Havant & Waterlooville at West Leigh Park.

To make the day even more unforgettable, Michael and his family were gifted hospitality tickets with complimentary food and drinks. They enjoyed a delicious burger before the match, which finished with Havant & Waterlooville 4-0 up, adding to the magic of the day. 

Michael’s experience was made possible thanks to Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies they’d like to try, places they’d like to visit or even activities linked to past careers. From skiing trips to a fish and chip supper, the programme is designed to help residents lead fulfilling lives.

Aimee Sparks, Home Manager at Pear Tree Court, said: “We are always looking for ways to make residents’ wishes come true. So, when Michael expressed his desire to attend a football match, we knew we had to make it a reality.

“Seeing the smile on Michael’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 Pear Tree Court for making the day so memorable. It was fantastic to be part of it.”

Pear Tree Court is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. It has its own cinema, pub and hair and beauty salon, and boasts plenty of space indoors and out for relaxation and recreation.