Trio of young Chesterfield singers to entertain care home residents with virtual concert during lockdown

Elderly people living at The Green Care Home in Dronfield were disappointed when a host of entertainment booked for them by staff had to be cancelled because of the spiralling coronavirus crisis.

But Tom Oxley, founder of the Chesterfield Community Volunteers, stepped in to help by organising a virtual concert – and he has already signed up some top local singing talent to raise spirits at the home.

MORE: Chesterfield community group set up to help the vulnerable amid coronavirus pandemic

Tom, an NHS personal assistant, launched the volunteers group last month on social media to find drivers, telephone befriending buddies, food shoppers and others who can support the elderly and those in self-isolation.

“The care home has had to cancel all its entertainment so I was delighted to help out,” Tom said.

“The gig will be via Webex where the residents’ families can also join the video conference. I’ve had so many lovely messages from family members thanking me so much for helping them. It’s so lovely!”

Gemma Gill, activities coordinator at The Green, said about 20 residents would be able to enjoy the concert on Friday, April 10 as it is live-streamed on to a large TV in their living room.

“It’s a really nice gesture and I’m sure the residents will love it. They were very disappointed when we had to cancel the entertainment we had booked because of the virus.

“It gives us all a bit of hope and something to look forward to.

“We did our own video of the residents singing a line each from a Dame Vera Lynn song which raised their spirits and went mad when we put it on Facebook.”

Tom’s Community Volunteers Group has already raised more than its initial target of £500 and more than 600 Chesterfield people have volunteered to do their bit.

They have been delivering hampers of food and toiletries to residents in need.

Singers already signed up are Lucy Johnson, Daisy Hinde and Melany Smith.

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