A story that’s plot on: Former author and Sutton Coldfield care home resident hosts writing session for local youngsters

Pupils from Little Sutton Primary School visited Care UK’s Mercia Grange, on Lichfield Road, for a reading and writing skills session hosted by published author and resident Kathleen Evan, aged 92.

On the day, Kathleen shared her top writing tips, as well as her advice for keen young authors – including to “follow your dreams and passions”. Kathleen also enjoyed talking to team members about the book.

Kathleen said: “I enjoyed spending time with the children – it brought back so many memories of writing. I also enjoyed teaching the children that it’s not always easy to achieve your dreams, but you mustn’t give up too easily.”

Kathleen wrote “James Brindley Canal Engineer a new Perspective” in 2007 which is about a Staffordshire engineer that designed the British Canal Network. Since a child, Kathleen has loved reading and writing, so it was a dream come true to write a published book.

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “We always enjoy opening our doors to the local community, so it was fantastic to be joined by children from Little Sutton Primary School to help celebrate Kathleen’s writing days and share her knowledge and passion.

“Intergenerational activities are incredibly enriching for both younger and older generations and provide a fantastic opportunity for residents and children to learn from each another. The youngsters were able to embrace some fantastic literacy skills to take back to their classroom – it was great to see the two generations spend time with one another and building friendships.

“We thoroughly enjoyed hosting this book recognition session for Kathleen to honour her writing days and hope that we have helped the children continue building a love of reading.”

Mercia Grange is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term respite care. The three-storey care home, which features 67 ensuite bedrooms, has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.