THE songs of yesteryear filled the air to help create special Remembrance Day events at care homes across the borough.
Singer Kelly Tracey, who performs under the stage name Kelli Stephans, launched Bring Me Sunshine in May to bring entertainment and activities to residents at local homes.
Remembrance Day was the perfect occasion for her to put up the bunting, wave the flags and wear vintage and military outfits.
Over a week, Kelly put on six Remembrance Day celebrations including at Edge Hill Residential Home, Oaklands Care Home, Coppice Care Home and Avalon Park Nursing Home.
She sang war time songs and old favourites and on some occasions was joined by Muso Choir, who sang rock and pop songs.
Kelly, who lives in Moorside, said: “Music can be a magic switch. If you turn on music you can immediately notice a difference in people and they come alive.
“I have had so many thank yous and pictures sent in from the homes and residents’ families, which has blown me away to see how much it means to them.
“It was quite emotional doing the events. I spoke to one man who fought alongside his five brothers and he was the only one to return home, and another lady who is now 101 was a Wren in WW2!”
Since launching Bring Me Sunshine, which is being registered as a charity, in May, Kelly has visited about 20 care homes across the borough, some numerous times.
Fundraising events, including a quiz night and music nights, have raised more than £900 in four months.
This has allowed Kelly to plan more exciting events for care homes, including a lunch trip out for some residents, as well as Christmas parties in December.
And plans are already underway for a Spring Sunshine Ball on April 3, 2020 at St Anne’s Rugby Club, with entertainment including a 16-piece Big Band. Tickets (£20) and more details available after Christmas.
Kelly has set a target of raising £1,000 via a crowd fundraising page to enable them to give away 50 tickets to families, carers and those living with Dementia, Alzheimers or Parkinsons.
To support them and donate, go online: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/sunshine-ball
Find out more about Bring Me Sunshine on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/sunshineentertainment
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