Former footballer and RAF members surprise resident for 103rd birthday

A former professional footballer and local RAF members have surprised a Cleveland House Bupa Care Home resident for his 103rd birthday.

Lawrence Rodgers celebrated his 103rd birthday this month and to celebrate the milestone, the care home’s deputy manager, Claire Ballion, invited former Huddersfield Town Football Club player, Andy Booth to visit.

Being a football fanatic, Lawrence was excited to meet Andy and discuss his experience as a professional player. He also surprised Lawrence with tickets for a private box at Huddersfield’s match against Reading the following day.

Lawrence attended the game with his family, including his great grandson, fellow resident and friend Gordon Wingrove as well as staff members Claire Ballion and Rachel Walsh. The group had a wonderful time watching the match from the private spectating area.

Claire Ballion commented: “It was wonderful to see that Andy’s visit was a success! Lawrence couldn’t believe he was going to the football and enjoyed an unforgettable day out with his family and friends. We’re very grateful that Andy came to visit the home, and pleased we were able to make Lawrence’s 103rd birthday so memorable.”

Lawrence was once a member of the RAF in the Lancaster Bombers, and to make his 103rd birthday even more memorable, some RAF members arrived at Cleveland House in uniform to wish Lawrence well.

Lawrence added: “I couldn’t believe what everyone had planned for my birthday, I felt incredibly excited and nostalgic. Going to the football with my friend and family again was a dream come true! I’ve never had a private box; the views were amazing. I felt honoured to be visited by members of RAF in uniform and reminded of my time as a member.”

Home Manager at Cleveland House, Claire Turner, said: “Building relationships with the local community is so important to us. We’re so happy that we were able organise this surprise for Lawrence and would like to thank Huddersfield Town Football Club and the RAF representatives for their thoughtfulness.”

This event was coordinated as part of Bupa Care Home’s #NeverTooLate initiative, a campaign focused on care home residents achieving their hopes and dreams, regardless of their age.

Cleveland House Bupa Care Home is situated in Edgerton, Huddersfield and welcomes residents in need of nursing or residential care. For further information, please visit https://www.bupa.co.uk/care-services