A SEASIDE stroll down memory lane was enjoyed by care home residents in Northumberland when they took a trip to the coast.
Residents at The Oaks Care Home, on Durban Street, in Blyth, took advantage of a rare ray of summer sunshine to walk along the town’s promenade and beach.
The outing brought back fond memories for the residents, who reminisced about similar occasions in their childhoods, having lived in the coastal town their entire lives.
Dennis Allen, 85, repeated his once regular 4-mile walk to Seaton Sluice, when he used to fish off the pier.
He said: “I was still doing this walk right up to when I moved into The Oaks. I used to love a good run along the promenade as well.”
Pat Whyatt, 91, recalled how the seafront had changed over the years. She said: “The chalets used to have flat roofs and weren’t bright and cheery like they are now.
“I also remember the big swings on the prom – we called them shuggy boats – as well as eating ice cream with strawberry syrup – which we used to call monkey’s blood.
“It is so lovely to have fresh air and a beautiful beach on our doorstep.”
As well as the walk, residents were treated to fish and chips for lunch at the Blyth Beach Coastline Café.
Pat said: “The café has changed a lot. I remember it being very small and being called both the Mermaid Café and the Jubilee.”
Ann Mielnik, home manager at The Oaks Care Home, said: “We believe it’s vital for our residents to get out and about as often as possible, ensuring they continue to feel part of the wider community.
“With the summer taking its time arriving this year, as soon as a warmer, drier day came along, we jumped at the chance to take the residents down to the seafront.
“Many have lived in or around Blyth their entire lives, so a trip to the beach and promenade always brings back fond memories, and provides an enjoyable day out.”