A wizard day of celebrations to mark milestone birthday in Hartlepool

A full day of entertainment was held to celebrate a Hartlepool retirement village's anniversary.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Aug 2018, 14:12 BST
Updated 17th Aug 2018, 14:15 BST
The care team cast of Wizard of OZ.The care team cast of Wizard of OZ.
The care team cast of Wizard of OZ.

Residents and staff at Hartfields Retirement Village had a great day to mark the 10th anniversary of the development.

Staff even dressed up as characters to perform their own version of The Wizard of Oz.

Line dancing at the 10th anniversary celebrations.Line dancing at the 10th anniversary celebrations.
Line dancing at the 10th anniversary celebrations.
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Residents and their families gathered around to enjoy the outdoor show and a professional facepainter was brought in to put the finishing touches to characters.

Gill Young, a member of staff at the village, which is based on Hartlepool’s Bishop Cuthbert development, said there was so much going on during the day and everyone had a great time.

She said: “It was really busy, we had a wonderful time.”

As well as staff staging a play there was a huge range of activities going on including a variety show and a visit from a choir.

The Mayor of Hartlepool Coun Allan Barclay cuts the ribbon to get the celebrations underway.The Mayor of Hartlepool Coun Allan Barclay cuts the ribbon to get the celebrations underway.
The Mayor of Hartlepool Coun Allan Barclay cuts the ribbon to get the celebrations underway.

The villagers also took part in line dancing, singing, a barbecue and plant potting. There was also a bubble artist to entertain everyone.

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The day was jammed packed with fun, games and entertainment for all ages and there were a number of stalls along the atrium, along with live music and fairground rides.

On the evening the centre hosted a 50s and 60s night with fancy dress optional for the residents.

Hartfields opened ten years ago to provide a purpose built village for elderly people.

Michelle of Moon Willow Face Painting puts the finishing touches to the Cowardly Lion, Catherine Wilthew, watched by Scarecrow Grace Kidson for The Wizard of Oz production.Michelle of Moon Willow Face Painting puts the finishing touches to the Cowardly Lion, Catherine Wilthew, watched by Scarecrow Grace Kidson for The Wizard of Oz production.
Michelle of Moon Willow Face Painting puts the finishing touches to the Cowardly Lion, Catherine Wilthew, watched by Scarecrow Grace Kidson for The Wizard of Oz production.

Gill said the residents all have their own apartments so they can live independently, but there are staff on hand if anyone needs support.

And, the village has a lot of facilities, including its own cafe, gym, grocery shop and even a spa pool.

Related topics:ResidentsHartlepool