Full house as Rowntree Lodge residents enjoy sing-along tea-party and Bingo

Residents of the Rowntree Lodge care home in New Earswick enjoyed a special tea party and an evening of sparkling entertainment recently, thanks to York Vikings Rotary Club.

Guests from the home, aged between 70 and 98, were in full voice as they sang along with entertainer Mick Hull to old-time songs from George Formby to Elvis Presley.

“This event is so important on our annual calendar,” says Rowntree Lodge activities co-ordinator Baz Larner. “The residents love it and the staff do as well – so much so that team members Kerry Taylor and Sue Fogg both came along on their day off to enjoy the fun with the people they care for.”

This year’s event, held in the sunshine at York Sports Club on Shipton Road, was all the more special after COVID restrictions. “For residents, during lockdown and beyond, times were really tough. Being able now get out, to have a change of scenery and to meet new people is a real boost. It gives them a whole new lease of life.”

A dozen members of the thriving York Vikings Rotary club were on hand during the evening to entertain and serve food to their guests. Says event organiser Dave Anderson:
“We often talk about the work we do with young and disadvantaged members of the community. But it is important to ensure that older people benefit from the work we do too. It is such a pleasure to be with them and to hear their stories. So many have lived such rich and interesting lives and made a real contribution to the community themselves. It is lovely to give something back to them.”

The club, which has recently seen an influx of new members, meets at Pike Hills Golf Club each Tuesday at 7.30pm and provides practical and financial support to charities and good causes across the region. Others they support include homeless charity SASH and HOPING street kitchen in York.

Read more in York Press