Cotebrook

These photographs were kindly donated by Mr Andy Sheppard, many of which were of the Annual Garden Party and were taken by Mr Sheppard's father during the 1960s.

One photograph shows the local Scout Troop making hot dogs, believed to have been taken by the Warrington Guardian.  The Garden Parties always had some form of entertainment such as a brass band, judo display or a dancing troupe.  One year, Mr Sheppard recalled, there was even a Wild West re-enactment group, whilst another year a police dog display team.

The first Matron at Cotebrook was Mrs Jones, followed in 1958 to 1976 by Mr Sheppard's grandparents, Mrs Margaret Mason -  who had been Assistant Matron. Her husband, Mr James Mason also became Superintendant of the Home.

A raised platform was set up in front of the house and honoured guests would be invited to formally open the Day.  One year, a member of the Dewhurst family opened the Garden Party and spoke about having visited Cotebrook in his youth, when it had still had been a private house.

Members of the Committee which ran Cotebrook also gave speeches updating everone on the progress of the home.  For many years, Mrs Blakeman chaired the Committee.

The disabled ladies in the home all took charge of the different stalls and games for people to buy or play   -  and all the Friends of Cotebrook were given something to do. Mr Sheppard remembers that both he and his father ran the soft drink stall.