Queenswood celebrates 40th anniversary

10 June 2015

Queenswood in Beeston, Nottingham marked its 40^th Anniversary with a visit from the Mayor of Broxtowe and other dignitaries.

Councillor Susan Bagshaw was a guest of honour when Queenswood celebrated its Ruby Anniversary with a series of events including a vintage tea party, live music and a spiritual commemoration. Queenswood is part of MHA, the national charity providing accommodation, care and support to 16,000 older people nationwide.

The tea party, held in a marquee, included cakes and savouries prepared by staff and volunteers at Queenswood, and was followed by dancing to a live band. Couples on the dancefloor included 102-year-old resident Roy Hardy and his daughter Susan.

Resident Eric Bly said, “I enjoyed the entertainment very much”, while Christine Prickard, who has been a volunteer at the home for over 20 years and is the relative of a former resident, added, “We are just one big family here.” Many volunteers have been moved to give their time to Queenswood after their relatives were cared for there.

The home was also visited by Loraine Mellor, Chair of the Nottingham and Derby District of the Methodist Church, and Rev Kenneth Smith, Queenswood’s first visiting Chaplain who was present at the opening ceremony in 1975. They attended a service of thanksgiving held by George Seabury, Chaplain at Queenswood, with readings from volunteers and residents. It was also attended by Rev Dr Keith Albans, Director of Chaplaincy and Spirituality at MHA.

George Seabury, Chaplain at Queenswood, said, “Everyone has physical, mental and spiritual needs. Spirituality differs from person to person; for some people it’s following a faith, for some it’s having someone for confidential one to ones, for some it’s about art or creativity. Queenswood is devoted to having spiritual support available for each resident however each individual requires it.”

Margaret Wetton, Queenswood Home Manager, said, “We’ve all had a lovely time full of sunshine, friendship and laughter, with over 150 people sharing it with us. The whole event was wonderful and truly reflected the mission of MHA to care for older people. It’s great to think we have been part of the community in Chilwell and Beeston for 40 years.

“We will be continuing with further events through out the year and have just launched a fundraising programme to replace the summer house, so residents can enjoy the garden all year round.

“It was lovely to meet the new Mayor of Broxtowe and we look forward to her coming to speak to the residents about her work.’