Jean Bramhall, a resident from Cawood House, was taken on the trip of a lifetime to celebrate her 90th birthday at the weekend. Cawood’s Activity and Lifestyle Facilitator, Leigh Cherie knew of Jean’s love for Stockport County and wanted to do something really special to mark the milestone.
Jean first began attending matches in the 1950s with her beloved husband Harold. The couple were lifelong best friends with Jack Connor and his wife Susie, who they went on many holidays with. Jack, who passed away in 1998, was a Stockport County legend.
With the help of Stockport County and Club President, Steve Bellis, Jean went back to Edgeley Park to attend Saturday’s match – her first in thirty years! Sat in the famous Cheadle Stand front row, Jean looked up to the sky and said ‘Come on Jack, I know you’re watching them. Help them out, will you?’ Moments later, County scored! Jean was one of thousands cheering and waving her arms as County went on to win 2-0.
Stockport County F.C Mascot Vernon Bear with Jean
Steve Bellis said, ‘It was an absolute pleasure having Jean back at Edgeley Park. Her smile lit up the room and was a lovely coincidence that some family friends that she hadn’t seen for thirty years just happened to be at the game too. Football has a great way of bringing people together. Jean also proved to be a good luck charm as she cheered us on to a 2-nil win.’
Jean, Leigh and son Paul were welcomed by Steve Bellis who escorted them to the 1883 lounge where they sat among Stockport County legends like Freddie Goodwin, who spoke to Jean about his time playing with Jack Connor. Jean was also introduced as a special guest and a legend herself by Steve, which brought tears to her eyes as he welcomed her back after thirty years.
Jean with son Paul
The day was made even more special with son Paul attending to share the memory. Paul said, ‘It was an absolutely brilliant day. Thank you very much to Stockport County and to all involved at Cawood House for my mum’s 90th birthday celebrations, one of the best days she’s had in a long time. The memories made will last a lifetime.’
Leigh Cherie said, ‘Borough Care’s motto is Life in Colour and for Jean, those colours are blue and white!’
