Care home residents moved to tears as wartime memories brought back to life

Barnsley care home residents on an emotional museum outing had memories of loved ones who served in the armed forces vividly brought back to life.

North Yorkshire’s Eden Camp Modern History Museum prompted nostalgia for residents from Deangate Care Home, in Mapplewell, during their trip.

While exploring the former prisoner-of-war camp, which now houses immersive Second World War exhibitions, many residents shared stories of family who served during and after the conflict.

Resident Norma Heaversedge, 97, was particularly moved as she discovered exhibits relating to her late husband Douglas, who served in the Royal Tank Regiment under Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery.

She found a tank similar to those used during her husband’s service, known as the Matilda tank, and a display detailing his regiment’s role in the war.

Norma shared how Douglas had experienced an attack on his tank during the war and was the sole survivor from a crew of five.

“Thank you to everyone who made this possible," she said, and added: "We are all so grateful that we could come out today. It’s a testament to all the hard work the staff put in for us. They really do care.”

Fellow resident Margaret Dymock, 90, became emotional when she came face-to-face with a Spitfire on display. She recalled her brother’s service in the RAF, flying Vickers Wellington bombers before later being posted to Italy.

Barry Skirrow, 86, also enjoyed seeing the collection of vintage vehicles and motorcycles, when he spotted the same type of motorbike on which he learned to ride as a young man.

The sounds of the 1940s proved equally popular, with residents Norma and Joan Giggal, 93, particularly enjoying the music. Norma even treated fellow visitors to her own rendition of some wartime favourites.

Brenda Pratt, 92, commented on the authenticity of the Blitz exhibition, saying it “smells like it did in the war” as she explored the recreated scenes.

Resident Martin Bradley, 66, described the museum as “a fantastic place”, adding: “I have learnt so much. Thanks to my chaperone Anne, she was brilliant and knew everything.”

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Anne was one of several volunteers who supported the trip, having remained closely involved with the home since the death of her father Maurice, a military veteran and former resident.

The group was also joined by former Mayor of Barnsley David Leech, a local veteran and regular attendee of the home’s Veterans Breakfast Club, who brought along his grandson Jack.

The trip, which enabled 27 residents and companions to visit the award-winning museum, was made possible thanks to fundraising carried out earlier this year by activities coordinator Rachael Addy.

In June, Rachael completed a trio of adrenaline-fuelled challenges, including an abseil, bungee jump and skywalk, to support the home’s residents’ fund.

“This trip was everything we hoped it would be and more," she said, and added: "Seeing residents connect so personally with the exhibits and share memories of loved ones who served was incredibly special.

“None of it would have been possible without the support we received during our fundraising efforts, and it was wonderful to see so many residents able to enjoy such a meaningful experience together.”

Deangate Care Home is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net.

To find out more about the Eden Camp Modern History Museum, click here https://edencamp.co.uk/.