Silk, stockings and storytelling: Middleton walks down memory lane with M&S Archives

Middleton Park Lodge Nursing Home in Leeds recently enjoyed a brilliant visit from Bryony at M&S Archives. With a suitcase full of clothes and old memorabilia, Bryony inspired each resident to share stories of their youth and what they liked to wear. A wonderful afternoon was had by all and we couldn’t wait to hear more about it.

M&S has played a huge part in people’s lives since 1884, whether that’s in their fridge, their wardrobe or around their home; the role of M&S Archives is to recognise exactly that.

Bryony came to Middleton Park Lodge with a suitcase full of old clothes, shoes, pyjamas and even sports memorabilia to share with the residents. She tailor-picked items which she thought would inspire conversation from each individual resident and sure enough, the memories were flowing.

Residents Joyce, Margaret, Marguerite and Norris got stuck into the activity, commenting on each piece of clothing and deciding if they’d have worn it or not. They particularly enjoyed admiring the colourful items from the 60s and 70s.

Norris told us: “I grew up in Saint Kitts playing cricket and various other sports before moving to the UK and following sports here too. I found the vintage football books and old photos very interesting!”

Meanwhile, Marguerite and Bryony spoke about dancing skirts and which would have been best to wear when doing the jive! They also enjoyed hypothesising over which famous people may have worn certain styles, such as a certain floral shirt which Marguerite said the Bay City Rollers might have worn.

Marguerite also told us: “My auntie Ethel made all of our clothes, even our coats. I remember feeling so lucky every time she gave me something new to wear – she was amazing and made every piece with care and love.”

Meanwhile, certain items reminded Joyce of how women’s fashion was quite rigid at times, and spoke about how college would send you home if you didn’t have your stockings and suspenders on!

A huge thank you to Bryony and the team at M&S Archives for visiting Middleton Park Lodge and engaging the residents in tales of days gone by. Activities Coordinator Paula is always organizing unique and meaningful activities for all residents to enjoy, and this was no exception.

Also, did you know that Marks and Spencers actually started in Leeds, at Kirkgate Market? How very appropriate then that they should bring the vintage fun to a wonderful Leeds care home!

If you’re interested in finding out more about the home, you can visit their landing page here, or you can learn more about the home’s Reconnect community which specialises in dementia care here. Alternatively, why not give the home a call on 0113 271 2307.