20 January 2021
When lifelong Stoke City fan, Brian Tansley moved Belong Newcastle-under-Lyme, his support workers granted one of his biggest wishes, which was to visit his City’s ground to see his favourite football team play again.
The day was a dream come true for 81-year-old Brian, who had been a dedicated Potters season ticket holder for over 50 years. And the cherry on the cake was an invitation to meet manager, Nathan Jones and legendary 1970s winger, Terry Conroy, whilst on a private tour of the ground. He also got the chance to visit his personalised brick in the Stoke City Wall, and received a card, together with tickets to the Club’s Delilah’s bar and a signed team shirt.
Born and bred in Stoke-on-Trent, Brian moved to the Belong care village on Lower Street in September. And upon learning that he would love to see his beloved team play again, staff from Hempstalls household, where he resides, organised the trip.
Fulfilling customers’ aspirations is a big part of Belong’s culture and Belong Newcastle-under-Lyme displays a wish list in The Bistro, encouraging residents to share their biggest dreams, as staff actively seek opportunities to make them come true.
Brian has praised Belong for their efforts, commenting: “It has been a truly amazing day. I have loved Stoke City for decades and grew up watching my idols play, such as Stanley Matthews and John Ritchie.
“Getting to meet another of my heroes, Terry Conroy was a real dream come true. I can’t thank Belong enough for everything they have done, and to the club for being so accommodating. I will never forget this experience.”
Steven Cartlich of Belong, who accompanied Brian to the club, alongside practice development facilitator, David Sherwin, added: “We are thrilled we could make this day happen for Brian. He is the biggest Potters’ fan I have ever known and it was clear how much it meant to him. At Belong, we constantly strive to identify residents’ wishes and do everything we can to fulfil them.
“A big thank you to the club management for their support, we are honoured we were able to make such a special gentlemen’s wish come true.”