Residents at The Old Vicarage Care Home in Clay Cross, Chesterfield, are proving that dreams really do come true through the home’s Make a Wish program. Each month, residents are encouraged to share their biggest wishes, and the Activities and Wellbeing Team selects one at random to make happen—no matter how big or small.
This month, the spotlight was on William (Bill) Leivers, a former Manchester City football player and lifelong fan of the game. Bill’s wish was to return to a football stadium to see a live match, and as a devoted Chesterfield supporter, the choice of venue was clear. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Leverton UK, Bill’s wish became a reality in spectacular style.
Bill was treated to an unforgettable day at the Chesterfield FC stadium, enjoying the game from the comfort of an executive box while sharing stories from his remarkable football past. The hospitality was exceptional, and to top it all off, Chesterfield won 1-0 – a scoreline Bill had boldly predicted at the start of the match!
“It was a dream come true,” Bill shared. “Being back at the ground brought back so many wonderful memories. And to see Chesterfield win – it couldn’t have been more perfect!”
Bill’s presence didn’t go unnoticed, either. When fans learned of his Manchester City playing days, they were thrilled to meet him, even asking for photos – a moment that brought smiles to everyone involved.
The Old Vicarage team expressed their gratitude to Leverton UK for making this magical day possible. “Seeing Bill light up during the game was truly special,” said Natalie Smith, Activities and Wellbeing Team. “It’s moments like these that make our Make a Wish program so rewarding.”
The Make a Wish program at The Old Vicarage Care Home is all about creating lasting memories for residents by turning their dreams into reality. For Bill, this wish wasn’t just a day out – it was a celebration of his lifelong love for football and the many stories he continues to inspire.