Bury: Care home residents well wishes to King Charles

Gary Ainsworth, wellbeing coordinator at Burrswood Care Home, put together the special book after asking residents to share their memories and best wishes for the new king ahead of the ceremony which will be King Charles and Queen Camilla crowned as monarchs.

The care home on Newton Street will be marking the event which takes place this Saturday with events across the weekend to help residents take part in the historic moment.

Resident, Ruth says: Dear King Charles III, I send you my warmest wishes for a long and happy reign. I have great faith in your ability to lead our nation with wisdom, compassion and grace. (Image: Gary Ainsworth)

Gary, who has worked at the care home since last summer, said he compiled the book because he wanted to do something “a little bit different for the residents".

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He said: When the Queen passed away I went round to the residents and asked them for their thoughts.

“I thought I would do something and get it published on Amazon.

Ida says: Dear King Charles III, I would like to express my sympathy for the loss of your mother, Queen Elizabeth II. I know that starting your reign at such a difficult time can be challenging, but I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion. (Image: Gary Ainsworth)

“We’ve got lots of messages that simply say congratulations and good luck with becoming our King.”

Not only do residents feel a special connection to the royal family, some have personal experiences meeting them, including one who was introduced to the now King while serving in the army.

Marion says: Congratulations to King Charles III on your ascension to the throne! May your reign be one of prosperity, peace and progress for all the people of the country. (Image: Gary Ainsworth)

In his own message Gary, said: “I hope you have a royal good time ruling over your kingdom and don’t get bogged down with all the paperwork.

“Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility… and a whole lot of people waving from balconies.”

Alan says: Your Majesty, I have always admired your dedication to public service and I have no doubt you will continue to do a good job as our King. Long may you reign. (Image: Gary Ainsworth)

Resident Roy said: "Congratulations Your Majesty! I'm sure you're over the moon with becoming King and I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to you.

"I hope you're reign is marked by great achievements and that you continue to make out nation proud."

Resident Eileen said she’d like to see King Charles visit Burrswood Care Home.

She said: “I would then like to take you to the Sundial pub and buy you a pint.”

Roy says: Congratulations Your Majesty! I'm sure you're over the moon with becoming King and I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to you. I hope you're reign is marked by great achievements and that you continue to make out nation proud. (Image: Gary Ainsworth)

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Gary said it was very important to the residents to mark the coronation, and many have a strong connection with the British monarchy.

He says the book took him about a week to put together, and he has sold around 10 copies, the profits from which he will put towards future events at the care home.

He said: “Most of our residents have seen the King grow up and lived alongside the King.

“For some, it’s their second coronation, some remember when the Queen was coronated.

"It's something to look back on, it sparks memories.”