Ex-Wolves Legend Steve Bull surprises care home resident on 100th birthday

The centenarian was surprised by a special visit from legendary Wolves striker Steve Bull, former midfielder Steve Daley, and ex-goalkeeper Phil Parkes.

“I never thought I’d make it to 100,” Joan admitted, as she reflected on the milestone. “It doesn’t feel real that I’m here with these players today, and this is how I’m celebrating my birthday. It’s just incredible!”

Joan, born in 1925, has witnessed decades of football history, with Wolverhampton Wanderers always at the heart of her life.

Her deep connection to the club goes beyond the pitch; growing up just a stone’s throw from Molineux, she spent her youth interacting with fans and soaking up the electric atmosphere of match days.

“I used to stand in the street where I lived and shout, ‘store your bikes’ to the supporters heading to the stadium,” Joan recalled. “They’d give me 2p and I’d share it with my mum.”

Joan’s enduring passion for the club extended to her time in the stands, especially during fierce derbies against West Bromwich Albion.

“Those games were always electric,” she said. “The atmosphere was so intense, it made every match unforgettable.”

The day was made even more special when Joan was presented with a personalised Wolves shirt, a teddy bear, and a birthday cake by the Wolves legends.

“To have Steve Bull and the other players here means the world to me,” Joan shared. “I’ve followed Wolves through thick and thin for so long, and having them celebrate with me has made this birthday so memorable.”

Jenna Hughes, Home Manager at Newcross Care Home, where Joan resides, expressed her pride in hosting the celebration. She said, “The whole team at Newcross Care Home were thrilled to be part of Joan’s 100th birthday celebration."

"Joan is a cherished member of our community, and it was an absolute honour to help mark such a remarkable day for her.”

Steve Bull, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest-ever players for Wolverhampton Wanderers, shared his admiration for Joan.

“I’ve reached some milestones in my life, but getting to 100 is something else,” he said. “Joan is a lovely lady, and I’m so grateful to be here with her today.”

Joan has been a resident at Newcross Care Home, part of Avery Healthcare, since 2022.

The event was organised as part of the Wolves Wishes initiative and supported by the Wolves Foundation, the official club's charity, which aims to bring joy to local communities through special moments like these.

The Wolves Wishes team worked alongside the Wolves Foundation to ensure Joan's 100th birthday was celebrated in the most memorable way.

Steve Bull also added with a chuckle, “Joan even gave me some tips on how to stay young — including the odd glass of Baileys!”

Avery Healthcare, which owns Newcross Care Home, takes pride in its long-standing tradition of caring for and celebrating its residents, creating unforgettable moments like these through personal connections and attention to detail.

For more information on Newcross Care Home, visit their webpage on Averyhealthcare.co.uk.