Epsom care home hits the right note with charity fundraiser

A care home in Epsom has raised more than £1,467 for charity at its popular musical fundraising event.

Care UK’s Appleby House, on Longmead Road, hit the right note at its annual Evening of Music event, which saw more than 100 local people attend and raised more than £1,467. 

Now in its seventh year, the Evening of Music event saw residents, relatives and the community dress to impress for a night of decade-spanning performances from local artists including James Schouten, Harvey Kersley, Barbara Christopher, and Darren Watkins. 

The impressive event raised £1,467 which was split between Musical Memories, a charity which provides a weekly service for people with memory impairments and their carers, the National Activity Providers Association and the Princess Alice Hospice. 

91-year-old, Mavis Freeman, said: “I really enjoyed getting dressed up and I am looking forward to the next one!”. Fellow resident, Sylvia Cannon, said “I loved the music! I have listened to music from a young age. My favourite part was listening to the boys, it reminded me of watching my dad play.”

Shona Bradbury, Home Manager at Appleby House, said: “We had a brilliant time welcoming the local community to Appleby House for our annual Evening of Music event.

“Music plays a key part in life here at the home, and we have seen first-hand the incredible benefits that music and the arts can have for those living with dementia, whether that’s aiding reminiscence or boosting someone’s mood. 

“It is also a wonderful way to bring everyone together, which is why we first started an Evening of Music eight years ago. Music is unifying, and to see the local community, residents and their relatives enjoying themselves while also raising money for three amazing organisations is truly fantastic. I’d like to say a huge thank you to the team, our performers and everyone who made this night happen – we couldn’t have done this without you.”

Appleby House has been designed to encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while remaining as independent as possible in a safe environment. The modern care home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care.