Surrey care home resident enjoys Elvis tribute night at local theatre

A lifelong Elvis Presley fan from Oxted enjoyed a special night out when care home staff took her to see an Elvis tribute show at a local theatre.

Joyce Halliwell, who lives at Windmill Manor care home in Hurst Green, was joined by fellow residents for Elvis, The Ultimate Experience at the Barn Theatre in Oxted, starring tribute performer Ben Thompson.

Staff arranged the trip after hearing about the show, knowing how much Joyce loves the music of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.

The group sang along to Elvis classics throughout the performance, and Joyce was particularly delighted when Thompson posed for a photograph with her afterwards.

Maria Wedd, general manager at Windmill Manor, said: “Joyce had the most fantastic evening out at the show, singing along with all of Elvis’ greatest hits. Ben was absolutely brilliant as Elvis. We all surprised ourselves by how many Elvis songs we remembered!”

Joyce said the music brought back memories of her younger days, including her time working at the Ajax factory – the site where Windmill Manor now stands.

“I loved Elvis growing up. Listening to all his hits brings back so many memories, back when I used to work at the Ajax factory where Windmill Manor now stands,” she said.

“I am very grateful to have special trips like this organised by the wonderful staff and always have a brilliant time. Ben was absolutely wonderful. The staff know I’m crazy about Elvis and they always indulge me!”

Windmill Manor provides nursing, residential and dementia care, including respite stays and longer-term support.