Castleford Market in West Yorkshire was brought to life during September when a group of residents, staff and family members of
Castleford Lodge took to the streets for their first sponsored busk in aid of the Alzheimers Society. The group, who regularly attend weekly singalong sessions in the home, are used to singing together, and performed their selection of twenty songs to the local community. Led by Activity Coordinator Tracey, with her guitar, the group entertained their audience for over an hour, singing songs from the 1920’s and 30’s, including 'Side by Side', by Harry Wood and 'Leaning on a Lamp-post', by George Formby. One supporter in particular was very moved by the music and later told the group that he had recently lost his grandad to Alzheimers. He was delighted when he was asked to join in, and stood proudly amoung the singers for the final few songs. Residents Ronnie Garbett and Joan Bramley were among the assembly who sang and played instruments to raise money, half of which will be donated to the Alzheimers Society. The group raised over £300. Tracey Lee, Activity Coordinator at Castleford Lodge said “The busk was a real success. Everyone was very nervous about the performance at first, but as soon as we started to sing I was filled with emotions! The group sang beautifully and I am so proud of each and every member.” “The busk is the first fundraiser of its kind that I have organised, but after today, I definitely want to organise another. Next time we might consider Parkinsons UK, as a number of our residents are living with the disease."'
