The Uttoxeter Morris Men perform

Family, friends, staff and local residents defied the bad weather to help Hoar Cross Nursing Home raise £1,700 towards more activities and new equipment for residents.

The Summer Fayre, which was opened by the Mayor of East Staffordshire Cllr Ron Clarke, attracted nearly 300 visitors during the course of the day with people enjoying this year’s ‘village fete’ theme.

The Uttoxeter Morris Men perform
The Uttoxeter Morris Men perform
A miniature steam engine tractor and the old Rolls Royce Silver Ghost proved the main hits of the classic and vintage car show, while neighbouring Hoar Cross Hall put on a number of treatments designed to refresh and relax.

These activities were played out against a musical backdrop performed by folk band The Crooked Bawbees and the Uttoxeter Brass Band.

Kathy Cleaver, general manager, was delighted with the turnout. She said: “We try to make these events as inclusive as possible and this was reflected in the different ages of people who attended, from babies and toddlers to teenagers, adults and our oldest resident – Dorothy Holdway – aged 100!

“The weather wasn’t the best, but everyone appeared to put it to the back of their minds and continued to enjoy the fun, games and refreshments…the staff tell me the cream teas and strawberries were close to selling out.”

She continued: “The Summer Fayre is important to us as it allows the local community to see what we do and to meet our residents. It’s also our main fundraising activity for the League of Friends and I’m pleased to say we raised £1,700. That’s £200 more than the target we set.”

Uttoxeter Morris Men kept up their regular appearance at the Summer Fayre and also used the occasion to put out a request for new members.

The Group is concerned that if younger people fail to get involved then one of England’s traditional dances could disappear.

Kathy concluded: “You could tell how much people enjoyed the Morris Men performance so it would be a shame if it didn’t continue. We’ll certainly be booking them for next year!”