Care Home resident scores dream day out with Colchester United FC

A care home in Colchester has arranged a dream day out for resident and football fanatic Percy, as he enjoyed a kick about with players from Colchester United Football Club.

70-year-old Percy Corps was born in Guildford and has been a resident at Colonia Court Bupa Care Home for a year. He has always been a huge football fan, and often shares stories with his carers about going to matches in Southend with his uncle George and brother Terry in his youth.

Percy has had many careers throughout his life, including gardening and pub work, but he always dreamt of playing football professionally, and thanks to Colchester United’s partnership with Active Essex, his dreams became a reality.

Colchester’s Football in the Community team first reached out to Colonia Court to share their walking football session, designed for anyone with neuro or mobility issues. The dementia friendly sessions are held once a month at Shrub End Community Sports Centre.

Once they heard of the opportunity, staff knew Percy would jump at the chance to play football alongside the professionals.

The players helped Percy dribble across the pitch, weave through cones, and score several goals.

Reflecting on his time at the centre, Percy commented: “I had a fantastic day with the players at Colchester United. It has been a while since I last played football, but once I got going the memories came flooding back. I even managed to score a few goals, maybe they will consider me for their next signing! I want to say a huge thank you to the lads on the team and to my carers for helping to arrange the activity.”

Jiji George, Home Manager at Colonia Court, commented: “We were thrilled to arrange Percy’s football experience. We know how much the sport means to him and playing with Colchester United will have meant the absolute world. You can tell he had a blast just from the pictures, but you should have seen him go in real life! We’re always looking for unique experiences like this to help residents continue their hobbies into retirement, so we’re really grateful to Colchester United and Active Essex for making this happen.”