Newbury care home residents host storytelling session with local youngsters

Residents at a Newbury care home have been reading classic children’s books with schoolchildren.

Residents from Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, in Maple Crescent, shared the love of reading by welcoming children from Trinity School to read some beloved stories together.

Arriving in their best costumes, the pupils sat with the residents – who had been practising their character voices – to enjoy a retelling of classic children’s tales, including The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Residents also enjoyed a visit from local dance school, Steps Ahead, and read The Gruffalo with some of the toddlers from the group.

Reflecting on the afternoon, one 84-year-old resident said: “It was a wonderful day.

“I used to be a teacher, so I know how important it is to nurture children’s imaginations through reading.

“It’s something I’ve always loved doing.”

Home manager Shirley Summerbell said: “We had a wonderful day of storytelling here at Winchcombe Place.

“Children’s literature is key to unlocking imaginations and nurturing a lifelong love of reading, so it was great to welcome both Trinity School and Steps Ahead into the home.

“Intergenerational relationships can be incredibly beneficial to both younger and older people alike and can help provide residents with a stronger sense of wellbeing and purpose.

“It was heartwarming to see the residents reminiscing over their favourite childhood stories and characters.

“We’re already looking forward to welcoming the children back to Winchcombe Place very soon.”