Parties have been in full swing at Orford House, our Coulsdon-based residential care home as three residents Freda Blade, Maureen White and Tommy Pollock have been celebrating their October birthdays. The three residents’ birthdays fall within five days of each other, and each celebrated a landmark year. Both Freda and Maureen turned 89-years-old and Tommy 69-years-old. Freda, who has been a resident at Orford House since 16th November 2015, decided the care home was perfect for her as it is located near her family, has a lovely environment and beautiful grounds. “I’m really happy living here and now, I believe, Maureen and I are two of the oldest residents,” said Freda. “No two days are the same, there’s always something going on. I love the different activities and am particularly fond of the chair-based exercise classes, balloon volleyball, aqua painting, knitting and I thoroughly enjoy the performances by all the regular entertainers.” Freda who was born in Galway, Ireland and grew up in Galway Bay, loved school and was ‘top of her class’ in English and Maths. “I went to boarding school and loved it, it was like attending Mallory Towers,” said Freda.
After leaving school, Freda became a Nurse and, in her twenties, married her Husband. The happy couple became parents to two sons Desmond and Morris and Freda is now a proud Grandmother to six Grandchildren. “Freda is a real character here at Orford House,” said Michelle Kennett, the Registered Manager at the care home. “She loves musicals and is quiet hilarious and entertaining.”
Maureen White, who is now 89-years-old, made Orford House her home in March 2021. “The care home is very close to my old home, so it’s ideal,” said Maureen. Growing up in Carshalton, like Freda, Maureen also attended boarding school near Guildford, where her favourite class was Art, closely followed by Netball, Singing and Dancing.
“I still love art classes,” added Maureen. “At Orford House I always attend the arts and craft sessions, plus the knitting group with Freda. Another favourite activity of mine is playing with the visiting Pets as Therapy dogs, they are so well-behaved and adorable. I used to have a dog called Lassie, so seeing them brings back many happy memories. I also love two other things Chelsea Football Club, I’m a ‘True Blues’ fan and Cliff Richard. His films were all so good and his voice was and still is amazing.”
“Maureen is a delightful lady,” continued Michelle. “She thoroughly enjoys our regular outings, especially to the garden centre and fish aquarium, the local Lavender Fields farm and, most recently, to a coffee morning at our local Councillor’s house.”
“For Freda and Maureen’s special days, as they were born only a day apart, we gave them a Pamper Session in our Sensory Room, followed by a Birthday Tea Party with all their care home friends and family. They are such special ladies, and we all wanted to show them just how special they are to all of us,” added Mary Bradley, the Activities Coordinator at Orford House.
69-year-old Tommy Pollock is also originally from Carshalton and decided to make Orford House his home in November 2024. “Tommy is an exceptionally talented musician and regularly plays the piano keyboard for the residents,” continued Mary. “I was really impressed to see how great he plays. He knows so many tunes, songs and melodies which he taught himself by ear. He really is amazing. Tommy’s favourite film is Mamma Mia! and he knows all the ABBA songs.” “Like Maureen, one of my favourite activities is the visiting Pets as Therapy Dogs,” said Tommy. “I’m also very keen on the Sensory Art Classes, interactive games, quizzes, bowling and floor basketball. I’m not a football fan but can always be found watching the horse racing and show jumping. I’m also a bit of a train and bus buff too.”
“Tommy had an extra special treat for his birthday,” continued Michelle. “His past Carer, took him on a mini-break to Butlin’s in Bognor Regis, but before he went on his trip, we made sure he had a great celebration with us, complete with a delicious chocolate birthday cake covered in his favourite treats – Jelly Babies and Smarties – and a party with all his care home friends.
“Freda, Maureen and Tommy are all such wonderful people and, like their star sign Libra are all gracious, fair-minded, social and charming. We are so lucky and honoured to have them living with us Orford House, and caring for them every day,” concluded Michelle.
Find out more about Orford House care home by calling 020 8660 2875 or emailing enquiries@fote.org.uk.