TWO residents from Archers Court Nursing Care Home in Sunderland had their Christmas dreams brought to life after enjoying a VIP visit to a festive horse dressage show at Washington Riding Centre in Washington, Sunderland.
Lifelong horse lovers Peter Jefferson and Kathleen (Kath) Barrass were “absolutely over the moon” when colleagues at the home arranged the special outing, allowing them to meet the horses, enjoy the parade and relive treasured memories from their past.
Home manager Sharon Easterbroook-Smith said: “Knowing their love for horses and how much they had been missing seeing them in person, we decided to organise a festive, trip for the duo.
“Peter and Kath were instantly thrilled when they learned of the outing. Their faces lit up the moment they heard they would be meeting the horses and watching the dressage. It was a real highlight for everyone involved.”
Peter’s passion for horses began at a young age. As a boy, he cared for his neighbour’s horses before buying his own and keeping them on his allotment. Kath’s love of horses started through attending race days with her older brothers, and she later went on to buy her own horse, Rosie.
The pair quickly formed a close friendship through their shared interests. The care team at Archers Court even traced where Rosie was stabled and supported Kath and Peter to visit her regularly until her passing earlier this year.