Roeacre Court celebrates silver anniversary

Scheme Manager Stella Watson and resident Mr Royle with Jimmy Cricket at the silver anniversary celebration

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Comedian Jimmy Cricket provided a welly-full of laughs for residents, staff and neighbours from Roeacre Court sheltered housing scheme in Heywood, when they came together to celebrate 25 years since their scheme was built.

The Irish comedian was the star turn at the celebration which was attended by a host of special guests including Mayor of Rochdale Councillor Alan Godson, Jim Dobbin MP, the Leader of Rochdale Council, Councillor Colin Lambert and Carol Matthews, Chief Executive of Guinness Northern Counties, the housing association which owns the scheme.

Champagne and chocolates were presented to 96-year-old William Royle, along with his favourite, a bottle of Navy Rum, for being the longest serving resident of Roeacre Court. Mr Royle has lived at the scheme since it first opened.

Scheme Manager Stella Watson has also been at Roeacre court for all of its 25 years.

A buffet and champagne toast were provided for guests with music played by the Whitworth Brass Band. The entertainment continued into the evening with a belly dancer and DJ before Jimmy Cricket took to the floor.

Carol Matthews said: “It’s tremendous to be at Roeacre Court to celebrate 25 years of an excellent scheme with a fantastic community.

“This is in no small part due to the care and attention the residents and scheme gets from Stella Watson, an inspirational colleague who has been with us and the scheme since opening day.

“I’m also delighted to have the honour of presenting a token to Mr Royle who is 96 years young and has also been with us for each and every one of those 25 years.

“This scheme has, and still is, a great asset to the community, and I’m very proud to play a very small part in the day. “

The scheme is home to 36 residents with care services provided by Guinness Care and Support.