14/01/2026
NEWS | Former Chelsea Player’s wish comes true through virtual return to Stamford Bridge.
Ashberry Healthcare has had the privilege of granting a deeply moving wish for Alan, a resident at Broomy Hill Nursing Home, as part of its Ashberry Wishing Tree initiative – reconnecting him with the club that shaped a defining chapter of his life: Chelsea Football Club.
Alan played as a centre forward for Chelsea FC between 1962 and 1965, proudly wearing the number 5 shirt.
His wish was simple yet powerful – to return to Stamford Bridge and relive the memories of his playing days at the club he has always held close to his heart.
While travelling to London would have been too challenging, the team at Broomy Hill were determined to make Alan’s wish a reality in another way.
They organised a virtual visit to Stamford Bridge, allowing Alan to once again see the stadium, the pitch and the spaces that meant so much to him during his footballing career.
To make the day even more special, Alan was surprised with a beautiful gift kindly sent by Chelsea Football Club, including a club scarf, alongside a commemorative plaque and tankard from Ashberry Healthcare to mark the occasion.
Alan was absolutely thrilled by the experience and spoke fondly of his time at Chelsea, with his joy visible throughout the day.
In a moment that delighted staff and fellow residents, he even showed he still has his footballing touch, heading the ball confidently into the back of the net.
The experience was made possible through Ashberry’s Wishing Tree initiative, which runs across its care homes and invites residents to share a personal wish, cherished memory or meaningful experience they would love to revisit.
These wishes are displayed on Wishing Trees and brought to life by care teams, creating moments of joy, connection and purpose that celebrate each resident’s life story.
Reflecting on the day, Wellbeing Lead Lauren Gatou, who organised Alan’s wish, said:
“It was an honour to help bring Alan’s memories of Chelsea back to life. Seeing the happiness on his face reminded us all why Ashberry Wishes are so important – it’s about celebrating who our residents are and the incredible lives they’ve lived.”
The virtual visit was a deeply emotional and memorable moment for Alan, the team at Broomy Hill, and everyone involved. It perfectly captures the heart of Ashberry Healthcare’s approach – creating meaningful, person-centred experiences that honour the lives and legacies of those in its care.
