RESIDENTS at a North East care home got a special surprise when they attended a talk about tea – a letter from Earl Grey himself.
The history buffs, who live at Royal Hampton Care Home, Ponteland, had gathered to hear a talk by The Northumberland and Newcastle Society – which works to preserve the heritage, culture and landscape of the city and county.
The talk – timed to coincide with afternoon tea at the home – explored the history of tea along with the life and work of the 2nd Earl Grey, whose statue stands at Newcastle’s Monument.
But, unbeknown to care home staff, the Society’s co-chair, Emma Newlands, who gave the talk, had contacted the current Earl, Alex, the eighth Earl Grey to tell him of the event.
And he was quick to put pen to paper in a special message for the home and its residents, saying he was “genuinely touched” by their interest in “my great-great-great grandfather… and about his life and connection with the North East.
“Although almost two centuries have passed since his time as Prime Minister,” he added, “it is wonderful to know that there remains such interest in his life, his family and the part he played in the history of this country.”
Born at Fallodon, Northumberland, Charles Grey, served as Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834 – following many successful years in opposition – overseeing the passage of The Reform Act of 1832 and The Slavery Abolition Act of 1833.
Newcastle’s Grey’s Monument – which was funded by public subscription – was erected in 1838 – and tea company Twinings named a tea after him in 1831.
Earl Grey added: “Organisations such as the Northumberland and Newcastle Society play an important role in protecting and promoting our heritage and I am very grateful to people such as Emma, who continue to share these stories with new generations.
“Thank you very much for your interest in my family’s history and please accept my warmest good wishes to everyone at Royal Hampton.”
Fran Richardson, activities coordinator, at Royal Hampton, which provides personalised residential, nursing, dementia and respite care and is owned by Crown Care Group, said the home was “amazed” to receive Earl Grey’s letter.
“Emma’s enthusiasm and knowledge of the story of Earl Grey was infectious – and to receive a surprise letter from the Earl himself while sipping the tea named after his great-great-great grandfather was just delightful.”
For more information about the Northumberland and Newcastle Society visit Home | Northumberland and Newcastle Society.
To find out more about Royal Hampton Care Home, visit the Crown Care Group website.