
A resident at Oaktree Care Home in Yate has enjoyed a long-awaited return to live football, making his first-ever visit to the Memorial Ground, to watch his beloved Bristol Rovers in person.
David, a lifelong Bristol Rovers supporter and resident at Oaktree Care Home, recently attended a match alongside home manager Rowena Gillespie after several years without seeing a game live.
First Bristol Rovers visit brings back matchday excitement
David has supported Bristol Rovers since he was a young lad and was once a regular at matches. However, changing circumstances meant he had been unable to attend fixtures for several years.
Staff at Oaktree Care Home helped make sure David was fully prepared for the occasion. The home’s chef provided him with a Bristol Rovers shirt to wear, while a friend kindly loaned him a hat to complete his matchday outfit.

Back among fellow supporters, David quickly settled into the atmosphere. He chatted with fans seated nearby and clapped along to the songs from the stands, clearly enjoying being part of the crowd once again.
The day was made even better by the result, with Bristol Rovers securing an impressive 4–0 victory.
Speaking after the match, David said:
“I felt happy to be there, the atmosphere was great, and of course the score, ending 4–0.”
Supporting residents to reconnect with lifelong interests
Rowena Gillespie, Home Manager at Oaktree Care Home, said the trip was a wonderful opportunity to support David in returning to something he has loved for most of his life.
She said:
“David has always spoken about Bristol Rovers and his memories of going to matches when he was younger. Being able to take him to his first game at the ground, and seeing how much he enjoyed it, was lovely to see.”
Trips like this form part of the home’s ongoing approach to supporting residents to continue enjoying the hobbies and interests that are important to them.
Care at Oaktree Care Home in Yate
Oaktree Care Home in Yate provides high-quality residential, nursing and dementia care in a welcoming and supportive environment. The team works closely with residents and families to ensure each person is supported to live as independently as possible while continuing to enjoy the activities they love.
Oaktree Care Home is part of Healthcare Homes Group, a trusted provider operating care homes, home care and specialist services across the South and East of England.
👉 Learn more about life at Oaktree Care Home here:
https://www.healthcarehomes.co.uk/care-homes/oaktree/
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