Footherley Hall Summer Fete celebrates the strength of community

Residents, families, volunteers, staff and friends came together for a joyful day that raised over £4,000 to support life at Footherley Hall

There are days at Footherley Hall that stay with us because they remind us of what truly matters, and the Summer Fete is always one of them.

Held in the gardens of the Home, the fete brought together residents, relatives, staff, sisters, volunteers, friends and neighbours for an afternoon filled with music, conversation, food, laughter and shared memories. It was a day that opened Footherley Hall once again to the wider community, welcoming not only the families who visit regularly, but also those whose loved ones have lived at the Home in the past and who continue to feel part of its story.

From the moment people began to arrive, there was a warmth in the garden that could not be created by planning alone. It was found in the smiles at the stalls, in the children running from one activity to another, in residents enjoying the music and watching the movement around them, and in the familiar conversations between people who have known and loved Footherley Hall for many years. This year, even several four-legged friends became part of the celebration, bringing extra joy and companionship to an already special afternoon.

The fete offered something for everyone, with stalls, books, jewellery, cakes, games, raffles and refreshments, as well as opportunities simply to sit, talk and enjoy being together. Yet what made the day so meaningful was not only what visitors could see, but everything that had taken place quietly behind the scenes long before the first stall opened.

At the heart of the celebration was the extraordinary work of the Friends of Footherley, whose generosity, commitment and organisation made the day possible. From early morning, and in many cases long before the day itself, they were preparing, arranging, carrying, sorting and planning with remarkable dedication. Some were looking after stalls, others were serving food or refreshments, counting donations, organising books and cakes, managing the tombola, welcoming visitors or making sure that every small detail was in place.

It was a true example of teamwork, not in words but in action. Whatever the weather, whatever the task, people were there, ready to help, with the same quiet commitment that has supported Footherley Hall for so many years.

Among them were people whose connection to the Home speaks beautifully of the wider Footherley family. Peter and Vicky, a couple who have been closely linked to the Home for many years, were once again part of the day, giving their time and presence with generosity. Toby, at 83 years old, spent the whole day running his jewellery stall, welcoming people with warmth and dedication. John, Head of Catering for the Sisters Hospitallers’ homes in England, was also there, continuing a tradition of supporting the fete that goes back more than 20 years.

These personal stories are what give the Summer Fete its soul. They remind us that Footherley Hall is not only a care home, but a place held by many hands and many hearts; a place where people return, stay connected and continue to contribute because they feel they belong.

A celebration that reaches beyond the Home

Claire Zehe, Manager of Footherley Hall, shared what the fete means to the Home:

“For me, the fete is a wonderful celebration that reaches out to the community, families who have loved ones here and families whose loved one have lived here. It provides entertainment for all generations. There is nothing nicer than seeing the garden light up with people, laughter and children running around and this year a lot of four-legged friends were very welcome.

As a Home, we cannot thank each and every member of the committee enough for the time they give tirelessly to put these events on. The work that goes on behind the scenes to organise the day is phenomenal. The money raised enriches the lives of all our residents. So, a massive thank you from us all at Footherley.”

This year, the Summer Fete raised more than £4,000, an incredible amount that will go directly towards enhancing the lives of residents at Footherley Hall. These funds help make possible the activities, experiences and special moments that bring joy, comfort and connection into daily life at the Home.

Supporting residents, creating memories

Speaking on behalf of the Friends of Footherley, Judy Pocock said:

“I am delighted that our Footherley Summer Fete was a great success. It was heartwarming to see residents, their families and the wider community come together for such a joyful day.

On behalf of the Friends of Footherley, I extend heartfelt gratitude to our amazing volunteers, and to all who donated or attended. We raised in excess of £4,000, which will, as always, go directly to enhance the lives of the residents and support the wonderful ongoing work of the Sisters and staff at Footherley Hall.”

For the residents, days like this bring more than entertainment. They bring the feeling of being surrounded by life, friendship and a community that continues to care. They create moments to remember, conversations to share and the simple joy of seeing the Home filled with people of all ages.

For the families, volunteers and friends who returned once again, the fete was also a reminder that their relationship with Footherley Hall does not end at the door. It continues through presence, service, generosity and love.

To the Friends of Footherley, to every volunteer, to the staff and kitchen teams, to the sisters, families, visitors, donors and everyone who played a part in making the day possible: thank you.

Thank you for giving your time, energy and care so generously. Thank you for helping to create a day that brought happiness to our residents and strengthened the bonds that make Footherley Hall so special.

The Summer Fete was, once again, a beautiful celebration of friendship, hospitality and community; a reminder that when people come together with kindness and purpose, something truly meaningful is created.