BCHC Villans Go Behind the Scenes on Stadium Tour
As part of the launch event for the Direct Access to Wellbeing Services (DAWs) Team on Thursday 26 September, a group of 22 BCHC staff, patients, and their families were treated to a fantastic tour of the ground thanks to a kind donation of tour packages from AVFC to BCHC Charity.
The group of dedicated Villans, nominated by members of Team BCHC staff, were escorted around the ground by tour guide Derek Russell, who offered facts, figures and stories throughout the visit. Going in through the players entrance, the group were able to visit the away and home team changing rooms (noting the rather vast difference in quality!) including the showers, ice baths, and physio rooms, before heading out pitch side and to take a seat in the dugout. The final stop on the tour was the manager’s office before the group returned to the DAWs launch expo to receive a gift bag of Villa goodies. Jacqueline Young said, “Thank you so much; my son really enjoyed his tour and we had a great afternoon.”
Louise Fisher, Occupational Therapist for the Central & West Therapy Hub, attended the tour with her brother and father. “I just wanted to say a massive thank you on behalf of me and my family for kindly giving us the wonderful prize of the Villa Park tour… The tour was brilliant, and my dad and brother especially enjoyed it!”
Stacey Taylor, BCHC Charity Engagement & Communications Lead, said, “I was already excited about accompanying the tour to take pictures as a Villa fan myself, however the enthusiasm and appreciation emanating from the group made this an unforgettable experience for me. The collective “Ooooh” as we walked into the home team changing room, the smiles on everyone’s faces as we emerged onto the side of the pitch; absolutely priceless!”
BCHC Charity would like to say a huge thank you to Aston Villa Football Club for donating these tour packages and helping us in our mission to bring a smile to patients, their families and carers, and Team BCHC staff. Visit our Flickr album to see more photos from the tour.
