2019 BGT winner, Colin Thackery, thrilled residents at a Milton Keynes care home by performing at a special show in the grounds.
The 91-year-old Chelsea pensioner had residents and staff at PJ Care’s Bluebirds centre in Shenley Lodge singing along to his talent-show winning tunes including ‘Wind Beneath My Wings’.
The BGT winner, an English Korean War veteran, was the oldest person to win the show two years ago.
Colin is the very first star guest to make an appearance at PJ Care’s monthly shows which started online during lockdown to entertain residents and staff. Compered by the company chairman, Neil Russell and entertainer, Steve Walls, they also helped to bring staff together who were having to stay within their units to minimise infection risk.
The shows proved so popular that they’ve continued, now taking place in the centres’ gardens, alternating between Bluebirds and Mallard House neurological care centres in Milton Keynes, and the company’s sister site in Peterborough.
The manager at Bluebirds, Colleen Brothers, said Colin was a wonderful addition to the show: “We usually have to put up with Neil’s singing, which certainly isn’t prize-winning, so to have Colin here was amazing!
“Britain’s Got Talent is essential viewing for some of our residents and they absolutely loved him being here.”
PJ Care provides specialist care for adults with progressive neurological conditions such as dementia, Huntington’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. It also offers rehabilitation for people with acquired brain injuries.
Colin was delighted to be able to entertain the 25 residents and said: “Over the years, I have learned that many people with neurological conditions respond positively to music and it gives me enormous joy to impart a little pleasure whilst doing something I love.”
He also praised the staff at the home and their efforts during the COVID pandemic.
“We owe so much to all the carers who have worked long hours in difficult circumstances and in stressful and anxious times so I was delighted to offer those at PJ Care a little entertainment to thank them for all their care, compassion and commitment.”
Colin is hoping to make a return visit, this time bringing his songs to residents at PJ Care’s Eagle Wood care centre in Peterborough.
