At Frome Nursing Home, Maureen Dyer, fondly known as Cilla, carries with her a lifetime of creativity, hard work, and unique experiences. From her childhood in a bustling Glastonbury pub to a connection with Buckingham Palace, her story is a testament to a life well-lived and continues to be appreciated and celebrated.

Childhood in Glastonbury

Cilla grew up in the Rifleman’s Arms Pub in Glastonbury, where her parents managed the business while raising her and her siblings. The pub was a hub of activity, and her parents often organised coach trips for customers to places like Burnham-on-Sea. “We’d take food and a barrel of beer,” Cilla recalls. “It was a great day out.”
Her parents were also highly creative, making soft toys and crafting a model of Queen Elizabeth II’s Gold State Coach for the Coronation in 1953. Made with sheep skin and local materials, the model was sent to Buckingham Palace, a fact Cilla still speaks of with pride.

Reconnecting with the Coronation Model

Cilla often wondered if there was a record of her parents’ Coronation model, so after learning this, team member Jacqui at Frome Nursing Home wrote to Buckingham Palace on her behalf. In July 2023, they received a reply acknowledging the request! While no records were found, the Palace explained that such gifts were often shared with schools or community groups. The team at Frome ensured Cilla was part of the process, reading the letter with her and making the moment significant. Jacqui recalled how she was thrilled to see her story recognised.

 

Frome Nursing Home, Somerset Care, Dementia Care, Complex Care

Cilla often wondered if there was a record of her parents’ Coronation model, so after learning this, team member Jacqui at Frome Nursing Home wrote to Buckingham Palace on her behalf.

 

A Practical and Creative Life

Cilla inherited her family’s creativity, excelling in knitting and baking, which she continues to enjoy today. Her sister recalls the wedding cakes she used to make, crafted with care and skill. Later, she worked as a machinist at Clarks Shoe Factory while raising two children, balancing work and family with dedication.

Supporting Cilla’s Needs

At Frome Nursing Home, Cilla is supported in ways that reflect her individuality, such as taking-part in baking and knitting. Cilla’s life reflects a balance of creativity, work, and family, with her story continuing to be appreciated by those around her. From her childhood in Glastonbury to her connection with Buckingham Palace, Cilla’s experiences remain an integral part of her life at Frome Nursing Home.

For more information about Frome Nursing Home, please contact Frome Nursing Home

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