Resident Mike Spreads Joy and Music with Old Norse Lodge Care Home

Resident Mike Spreads Joy and Music with Old Norse Lodge Care Home

Mike moved into Old Norse Lodge in June this year. When Mike came to look at Old Norse Lodge for the first time he asked if he would be able to bring his piano with him, as he would like to continue to play. Julie, General Manager of Old Norse Lodge agreed, and it was just where we would be able to accommodate it, as it was too large to go into his room. When it was suggested that we could accommodate it in the lounge. Everyone agreed that this would be the best place. 

John ‘Mike’ Sanderson was born in Cleethorpes, and he has been playing the piano since he was a small boy. He has taken various exams to learn to get better at this wonderful talent.

Mike got his first job playing the piano in the local pubs, when he was 16. He has also played at the ‘Winter Gardens’ in Cleethorpes and The Wheatsheaf in Grimsby, captivating the audiences with his renditions of a variety of well-known tunes, both old and new and even went onto have a CD made of some of his best song titles, which is now played at Old Norse Lodge.

John ‘Mike’ had a brief break from playing locally, when he was called up to complete his National Service for the ‘Ordinance Corp’. However, while serving he became the fourth member of a quartet entertaining serving Troops.

John ‘Mike’ had an article about him, printed in the local Grimsby paper in April 1995. He was a well-known person around the area and together with his wife, they used to run dances in Church Halls and The Memorial Hall. Sadly, John’s wife passed away, however, he continued to play his piano, albeit not as much as before. 

Since moving into Old Norse Lodge Mike has agreed that he will play for the other residents living here, at least once a week. Although he says, “I can’t play as well as I used to, but I will give it a try”. The residents and visitors enjoy listening and eagerly applaud when he has completed his renditions. We have also had some of the listeners singing along to his tunes. 

John ‘Mike’ has told us that it has made him very happy that he could bring his piano and that it has helped him to settle into the home. Being able to continue your pastimes is a very important part of everyday life as well as empowering the person, it makes them feel valued and gives them self- worth.

John ‘Mike’ has told us on several occasions that although he had to work to provide for his family. He loved playing the piano; however, this was only one of his pastimes. John also used to build and fly model airplanes.

However, that’s another story for later!  Thankyou John ‘Mike’ Sanderson        

Old Norse Lodge is delighted to launch 'Stuffed with Love', a project to bridge the generational gap between the local community and its residents. By donating just £1, you can have a chance to choose a name for our special teddy bear and create meaningful connections. All proceeds go to Sunflowers Children's Action Group, the charity chosen by Old Norse Lodge’s residents.

Find out more about the project by visiting Old Norse Lodge or by following them on Facebook.

If you or a loved one wish to find out more about Old Norse Lodge Care Home, visit their website www.danforthcarehomes.co.uk/old-norse-lodge or contact the enquiry team at 01472 483202 or enquiries@danforthcarehomes.co.uk

Matthew Telford Park, Grimsby, DN33 3EP