Newport Care Home Resident Chuffed With 80th Birthday Celebrations

Brian - a resident of Vecta House care home in Newport - has celebrated his 80th birthday with a surprise trip to Isle Of Wight Steam Railway (Haven Street station.)

The octogenarian's wife had spoken to the staff at Vecta House to see if it was possible for Brian who lives with Dementia to be able to spend the afternoon at the steam railway for his 80th birthday.

Staff jumped into action to make the day as meaningful as possible.

Brian enjoyed a morning of pampering ready for the big surprise and you could hear staff all through the corridors singing and sharing happy birthday wishes.

After lunch the adventure began with a taxi arriving to take Brian a train enthusiast - to his surprise destination.

Surprises were planned throughout the day, starting with a warming welcome from staff at Haven Street followed by a gift of delicious Isle of Wight shortbread from one of the stalls.

The railway station was full of staff dressed in spooktacular costumes for the upcoming Halloween celebrations.

Next stop was the gift shop with a wonderful array of train inspired gifts on offer, Brian reached out for a cap that he proudly wore later on his train journey.

Finally the time had arrived for the BIG surprise - with Brian's name on the front of the train alongside a happy 80th birthday message.

Staff then rolled out the red carpet for him to board the train with his very own carriage awaiting him.

After all the excitement Brian and the activities team headed back to Vecta House, loaded with cake and presents from his family.

Tanya, lifestyle leader at Vecta House, said:

"It was heart warming to see Brian interact so well and be engaged throughout the day.

"We could see a real spark in Brian and the trip really was a meaningful experience to him.

"I feel proud and honoured to be able to make a difference to somebody’s life, especially when they are living with an illness such as Dementia."