MAYOR of Warrington, Cllr Wendy Johnson, has been doing her bit to keep up spirits by arranging video calls and enjoying afternoon tea with care home residents.
Before the coronavirus lockdown restrictions were implemented, Cllr Johnson had been planning a 101st birthday celebration at the Town Hall for a care home resident, Frances, and a group of friends from Holcroft Grange care home at Culcheth.
Cllr Johnson therefore decided to try and help continue the celebration in a different and novel way – via WhatsApp video call!
Residents and care home staff enjoyed a unique afternoon tea with the Mayor and with the residents in lockdown for the past seven weeks and beyond, they were delighted to receive a call from the Mayor
The afternoon tea had extra significance as it also formed part of their VE Day celebrations.
Cllr Johnson said: “VE Day is a day of such importance and I have so enjoyed spending time with residents who have their own special stories, memories and reflections of what the day means to them.
“I also wanted to make sure that we marked Frances’ 101st birthday despite her and her friends not being able to visit the Town Hall.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to care providers across Warrington who have shown immense collective support for our residents who rely on their expert help and care. The last few months have been a challenge for us all, but after having spoken to Holcroft Grange’s staff and residents, it’s clear that our elderly and vulnerable are continuing to get the best possible care in our homes, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19.”
Following afternoon tea, Cllr Johnson spoke to care homes throughout VE Day. Cllr Johnson also joined up with Brampton Lodge via Whatsapp call, to speak with residents who were be in war-time dress, enjoying tea and cakes and listening to ‘boomer’ music throughout the afternoon.
The Mayor will also be arranging video calls with other care homes in Warrington over the coming weeks.
To find out how you can continue to mark VE Day, visit warrington.gov.uk/ve-day-at-home
