Celebrating life at Barchester

Two long-lost school friends have been reunited after 60 years, thanks to a chance glance at a newspaper and a little help from Broadway Halls.

Ray Stokes, originally from Dudley and now living in Kinver, was enjoying his usual morning read of the Express & Star when he spotted a familiar face in a story about Broadway Halls Care Home in Dudley. “That’s got to be Fred,” Ray said to himself, recognising the gentleman in the photo as someone he hadn’t seen in decades. Ray Stokes and Fred Tennant had been great friends at Dudley Grammar School between 1948 and 1953. They played football together for the school team and spent their teenage years chasing girls and going to the Savoy cinema in Netherton with their friend Les – who sadly passed away some years ago.

Curious and hopeful, Ray decided to email the care home to ask if the man in the article was indeed Fred Tennant.

Scott, our Activities Lead, received the message and went straight to Fred with the question. Fred’s face immediately lit up. “Of course I remember Ray!” he said with a big smile. “We were great mates – I never forgot him.” Scott quickly got to work organising a reunion. Within a couple of days, Ray arrived at Broadway Halls, book in hand filled with old photographs, newspaper clippings – including a treasured piece on Wolves winning the FA Cup – and plenty of memories.

The meeting was full of laughter and storytelling. They reminisced about their schooldays, football matches, first loves, and old adventures – including the time Ray joked that Fred had “run off with his girlfriend” back in the day. Life had taken them in different directions after they left school: Fred became an accountant, Les joined the police, and Ray went into sales.

They had briefly crossed paths in 1965 at Carters in Birmingham, where Fred was working in accounts and Ray was delivering air conditioning parts. That fleeting moment turned out to be the last time they saw each other until now.

“It’s been absolutely wonderful,” said Ray. “We picked up right where we left off. It’s brought back so many good memories.” Fred agreed, adding, “Seeing Ray again has made my year. It’s like no time has passed.”

The two old friends are already planning their next meet-up and they hope others from their school days might still be out there, willing to join them for a catch-up.  If you went to Dudley Grammar School between 1948 and 1953 and remember Fred, Ray, or Les, especially if John Darby and Ken Williams are still with us, the team at Broadway Halls would love to hear from you. Who knows – another happy reunion might be just around the corner!

Celebrations have been in full swing at Meadowbeck, as one of its residents reaches her centenary in style.

Gladys was joined by her family, friends and team members as she received a telegram from the King. Her daughter, Vikki, who is a postlady, was privileged to hand-deliver the telegram from the King to her Mum herself in recognition of her landmark birthday. A celebration was held at the home for everyone to enjoy cups of tea and enjoy a special birthday cake made by the home’s chef, Tom.
 

Rain couldn’t dampen the excitement when we welcomed the Classic and Historic Motor Club for a very special car show. Our residents, families, and friends gathered to admire a line-up of beautifully kept vintage cars, either up close in the car park or from our cosy café with tea and homemade cakes in hand.

The cars sparked many happy memories. Roger recalled sunny picnics in his Aston Martin, Robert laughed about reversing uphill on his first road trip, and Lisa fondly remembered her little car gifted by her grandfather. Wendy even hopped into the driver’s seat of a gleaming Mercedes, beaming: “It’s lovely, absolutely wonderful.”

For many, the best part wasn’t just the cars, but the shared stories and good company. As Michael put it, “I’m so glad I came out, I’ve had a lovely afternoon and met so many new people; what a wonderful event!”

The residents and staff were delighted in welcoming the Seventh-day Adventist Church choir to their home who filled the air with beautiful sounds.

A group of children adults and children from the congregation visited the residents, providing a truly uplifting morning of songs and spiritual fellowship. The choirs beautiful voices brought smiles to every face, and the residents thoroughly enjoyed the heartfelt performance. The children in particular were a delight, their sweet voices adding a special touch to the event. Afterward, the children personally handed out beautiful, handcrafted cards and flowers to each resident. The cards made with care and creativity, served as a tangible reminder of the day’s warmth.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “The visit was a powerful reminder and an example of the importance of faith and spiritual activities within a care home setting. These moments of connection and joy are invaluable, providing not just entertainment but a deeper sense of peace and community. The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s generosity and compassion created a day that will be remembered by both residents and staff.”

Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.