Emmaus House, Whitehaven, staged its own programme of sporting events, with one lady’s stand-out performance gaining supporters far and wide 

 
With the Winter Olympics and the Paralympic Winter Games taking place in Milan-Cortina this February/March, Emmaus House care home in Moresby Parks, Whitehaven decided to stage their very own version, coming up with a series of inventive sporting challenges. A headline event was ‘the ski prep challenge’, and Doris, 91, excelled. 
 
In a race against the clock, Doris donned hat, gloves and scarf before proceeding to ‘ski’, cheered on by care home staff. Her attempt was captured on video and shared on social media where she has gained plaudits from a multitude of viewers – on Instagram alone the clip has been viewed over 1.6 million times. One reason the clip has proved such a hit is that despite one or two hiccups, Doris gamely carries on, breaking into laughter herself.  
 
Doris’s winning attitude has even attracted praise from celebrities. Fashion guru Gok Wan commented: “Doris, I whole-heartedly approve of you and the accessories” while TV and radio presenter Gaby Roslin said: “Go Doris!” 
 
Other events in the care home’s Winter Olympics included dominoes, ping pong shot and ‘cool runnings’ a challenge involving newspaper and some frantic foot action.  
 
Leanne Parr, Activities Coordinator at the home, said: “We were inspired by all the excitement of the Winter Olympics and wanted to bring some of the fun to our residents. We’ve had a great time with lots of laughter, and of course Doris has been a total star. We think she deserves a gold!” 
 
Emmaus House is part of Pilgrims’ Friend Society, a Christian charity which runs care homes and is committed to providing warm communities where older people can enjoy fulfilled living in later life. As part of the approach, staff work hard to provide activities that will be enjoyed by those living in the home. Other recent activities have included a meal out at Whitehaven Golf Club and a visit from musicians. 
 
To watch Doris’s ski prep challenge, head to Instagram and search ‘Pilgrims’ Friend Society’ or the handle ‘@pilgrimsfriend’ or click here.
 
To find out more about life at Emmaus House in Whitehaven, visit: www.pilgrimsfriend.org.uk/emmaus-house-whitehaven