An Afternoon of Community and Camaraderie
While the minibus typically heads out for another outing in the afternoon—perhaps for a spot of shopping at Boundary Mill or sightseeing in Ilkley—today is different. This afternoon is dedicated to the Spellman Care Veterans Café, and it’s being held at our beautiful sister home, Ghyll Royd Care Home. Once a month, veterans from our homes and the wider community come together for an afternoon of socialising, good food, and great camaraderie.
At 1 pm, our residents board the Spellman Express once more, heading to Ghyll Royd. We make a couple of stops along the way to pick up friends from the other two homes. The journey becomes a reunion in itself as residents greet old friends and make new ones.
The scent of home baking and coffee greets us as we arrive at 2 pm. The sounds of music draw us to Ghyll Royd’s back garden, where the veterans’ café is in full swing. The extensive lawns and tranquil setting amongst the trees make for a perfect afternoon. Our residents spot familiar faces from the Ilkley Armed Forces Breakfast Club, chat with young people from the local cadets, and even have the chance to meet the local MP. Head Chef Luke is on hand, serving slices of his freshly baked cake—a recipe provided by a former member of the army catering corps.
Conversation flows easily, with stories shared about military service and the joys of the veterans’ café. We talk about past events, laughing as we remember the first event when a classic Rolls Royce visited and the time we met men in uniform from the Yorkshire Regiment and the Howarth Home Guard. It’s a wonderful opportunity for our residents to feel seen and celebrated, to share their experiences, and to connect with others who understand their stories.
At 3.30 pm, it’s time to say goodbye. The residents depart, but not before promising to see one another at the next veterans’ café, which will be held at a different home next month. The afternoon is a reminder of the power of community and the importance of shared memories.
The day ends at 4.30 pm, back at Steeton Court. As the residents head inside for dinner and a friendly game of dominoes, Phil hoses down the minibus, washing away the dirt of the day and preparing it for its next adventure. The Spellman Express has completed another successful journey, leaving behind a trail of happy memories and strengthened friendships.
Please note
This is an example of what a day in the life of the Spellman Express might look like, using trips residents have actually gone on and events we have actually hosted. The schedule and destinations vary based on the home and the interests of our residents.
Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, the Spellman Express comes to life, ready to whisk residents from one of our four homes off on an adventure. Affectionately named by our residents, this minibus is more than just a vehicle; it’s a portal to the community, a catalyst for connection, and a source of countless smiles.
The Morning Run
The day for the Spellman Express, and its dedicated driver, Phil, begins promptly at 9.30 am. After a thorough sweep and a maintenance check, the bus sets off to its designated home for the day. Today, it’s Steeton Court’s turn. Phil arrives at 10 am, heading inside to join the activity coordinators. Over a welcoming cuppa in the lounge, residents gather, their chatter and laughter filling the room as they anticipate the day’s outing.
Soon, everyone is settled aboard the bus, and the Spellman Express sets off. Our destination for the morning is a scenic countryside drive, culminating in a stop at Hamilton’s by the river in Addingham. The gentle rocking of the bus and the stunning views provide a perfect start to the day.
At 10.35 am, we arrive at High Mill. As we disembark and enjoy a peaceful stroll, it’s wonderful to see our residents waving to dog walkers and greeting members of the public. This feeling of being a part of the local community is so important. We stop for a cuppa and a slice of cake at Hamilton’s, enjoying the fresh riverside air. The morning is a lovely mix of good company, delicious treats, and the simple pleasure of feeling connected to the world around us. By 11.30 am, everyone is back on the bus, full of smiles and chatter, and we return to Steeton Court just in time for lunch.
