Care home gets a visit from the Olympic Torch

Ainsdale Court Nursing Home in Prescot, Mersyside, was visited by the Olympic torch and one of the official bearers, where some of its residents are former athletes.

Mike Dooling, 83, who ran his torch relay leg in Cheshire’s Tatton Park, visited the home to show residents the Olympic torch and to talk about their experiences of the Olympics.

Shevington Court is home to several former athletes including professional footballer, John Hatton, who played for Stockport County FC and ice-skating medal winner Barbara Berry.

Brigid Alexander, general manager of Shevington Court, said: “Having Mike visit our care home with the Olympic torch was a fantastic experience for residents and staff. It’s not something that happens every day!

“It really helped residents to think about their past experiences of the Olympics’ and the memorable moments they could describe from the Games. The Olympic Games are such an iconic event and it’s great that we were a part of it by having a visit from an official torch bearer.”

Torch bearer Mike Dooling said, “My Olympic relay route took me past Shevington Court before I ran through the park. I thought it would be a great idea to take in the torch to show residents. I was extremely proud when I was picked to be a torch bearer and I want to share my experience with as many people as possible.”

Ex-professional footballer, John Hatton said, “Being able to hold one of the official Olympic torches was brilliant. I enjoyed my time playing professional football and I have loved all sport my whole life. I am looking forward to watching some events on TV and meeting Mike has made this year’s Olympics even more special.”

Image: Mike Dooling brings his official Olympic Torch to Shevington Court to show sporting residents John Hatton and Barbara Berry who are pictured with home manager, Brigid Alexander (centre)