Hendon Hall residents relive 1966 memories with Sir Geoff Hurst

The hat-trick hero met the care home residents at a World Cup-themed event reports Leïla Davaud

Three men sitting holding pints of beer — Sir Geoff Hurst with Signature at Hendon Hall residents – (Credit – Signature Senior Lifestyle)

Two residents of a Hendon care home which once housed the England World Cup squad have met one of the tournament’s most famous heroes, more than half a century after the historic win.

Peter Lawrence and Edward Cohen, both residents at Signature at Hendon Hall, were guests at a retro World Cup-themed event at The Palm House in Westminster, hosted by Budweiser Brewing Group and AB InBev to mark the contribution of British pubs, bars and the hospitality trade. There, they had the chance to meet Sir Geoff Hurst, who scored a hat-trick in England’s 1966 World Cup final win.

The evening carried particular significance for the pair. Hendon Hall itself has a direct link to that particular tournament, having hosted the England squad during the competition, and Edward was among the crowd at Wembley Stadium on the day of the final.

Edward said: “It was a great pleasure to meet Sir Geoff Hurst with my friend and fellow resident, Peter. He was incredibly knowledgeable and treated Peter and me with the utmost courtesy, as though we were the only people at the event. I was also impressed by his health and fitness.

“It was amazing to meet someone who is such an important part of English sporting history and to hear his views on the game, both then and now. It’s an experience I will remember for many years.”

Orla Green, general manager at Signature at Hendon Hall, said the evening had been a special one for both men: “It was a real privilege to see Peter and Edward spend time with Sir Geoff Hurst. Both gentlemen vividly remember England’s incredible 1966 World Cup victory and, for Edward, who was at Wembley Stadium that day, the evening brought back unforgettable memories.

“These experiences mean a great deal to our residents and their families. They help bring back memories, spark conversations and create new moments to treasure.”

Local news needs your support

We are proud that we were at the forefront of reporting on the recent local elections. We can’t do this without the support of our readers.

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

ACT NOW!

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else. £84 annual supporters get a print copy by post and a digital copy of each month's before anyone else.