AFC Bournemouth Footballer, James Hill paid a visit to the Talbot View care home in Bournemouth to make a lifelong cherries fan dream come true.
The centre-back for AFC Bournemouth played football with care home residents, assisted by AFC legend Steve Fletcher.
John, one of the residents who has followed every match for the past 60 years was thrilled to play some ‘chair-based football’ with James.
John said, “It was brilliant to meet James Hill, who was very nice and down-to-earth. He’s a very good player an he’s got a long throw”.
The visit was arranged as part of a partnership between AFC Bournemouth and Care South which enables care home residents and staff to take part in weekly seated football sessions, and other activities such as stadium tours.
AFC Bournemouth team with Talbot View residents
James Hill said, “I really enjoyed every moment of my visit to Talbot View. I think bringing everyone together to play some football games is such a special experience”.
James and John teamed up with another resident and cherries fan Maurice, to kick footballs, beanbags and giant dice to hit targets on the floor.
Talbot View residents taking part in activities
James added, “Not only has John got fantastic knowledge of football, but he’s got a heart of gold. He wished me luck and told me to carry on with what I’m doing on the pitch.”
Talbot View care home is run by a non-profit care provider and provides residential, respite and dementia care to residents.
Home manager at Talbot View, Dawn Hand said the experience was truly special for residents, but especially John, and “seeing his face light up when James Hill walked into the room to take part in the session was heart-warming.”
“Activities like this bring so much joy and promote teamwork and positive engagement, giving out residents the chance to stay active and connected through something they truly enjoy.”
Resident John, with AFC’s James Hill
During the activities, many of the residents of the care home won an AFC Bournemouth scarf to keep as a memento from the day.
For more information about care services at Care South visit https://www.care-south.co.uk/ or call 01202712410