CV Life is celebrating one year since the post-Covid re-launch of its popular Sporting Memories initiative.
The programme, part of the Coventry Moves project, aims to tackle isolation and loneliness among the older generation by reminiscing about Coventry through the lens of sport.
Compered by city athletics legend Dave Moorcroft, the sessions have been attended by hundreds of people through the year, with some truly iconic Coventry sporting figures as guests.
FA Cup Winners Steve Ogrizovic and Dave Bennett have been in attendance as well as Dave Busst, Dennis Mortimor and Andy Blair. From the world of swimming, Hamilton Bland took questions from Dave Moorcroft, while journalist legends Adam Dent, Rob Gurney and Clive Eaking discussed their time covering the city’s sport scene.
Mick Holland has been attending the events regularly, he said: “I have enjoyed all the sessions so far. I thought Rob Gurney was brilliant and he talked so passionately about the Sky Blues which was good to see and hear.
“I’d like to see some cricket-related guests in the summertime. But overall I just like to say to the team please keep up the good work and thank you for all you are doing.”
Discussing Sporting Memories, compere Dave said: “The events are really light-hearted and informal – we encourage questions and open discussion.
“It’s been such great fun being involved with Sporting Memories this year, we’ve had some wonderful guests and I can’t wait to unveil who we have lined up for 2024.”
The events, which are dementia friendly, have also branched out into quizzes and day trips. Earlier in the year members of the group enjoyed a coach trip which took in a world class horse stables, before heading onto Wolverhampton Races.
Wendy Jackson, community development manager for CV Life, said: “I’m really proud of the impact Sporting Memories has had on those that have taken part.
“We’re seeing new faces all the time, with friendship groups popping up off the back of the events. We’ve also found that people have such a good time socialising they stay for a few hours after the session finishes.
“Our plan is to build on the success of this first year and come back in 2024 bigger and better, hopefully with plenty more new faces!”
Find out more about Sporting Memories here.