Excitement was in the air at Longlands care home in Blackbird Leys as residents, their families, friends, and carers welcomed a very special guest for an evening of quiz fun and fundraising. 

Darragh Ennis, best known as The Menace from ITV’s hit quiz show The Chase, stepped into the role of quizmaster, bringing his trademark charisma, knowledge, and humour to the occasion.

Ticket sales for the event raised £240 towards new garden furniture for the care home. Local organisations including Thame Cricket Club and IP Asset Partnerships Ltd also pledged further donations towards purchasing the garden furniture. 

Kelly-Marie Allen, OSJCT Home Manager, initiated the quiz following residents’ collective desire to raise funds to enhance their enjoyment of the home’s gardens. She said: “Everyone at Longlands loves a good quiz, so I thought — what better way to raise funds than with a special event hosted by none other than The Menace from our favourite TV show! I’m not sure who’s more obsessed with The Chase — me or the residents! They watch it every weekday, and Olga and Sheila enjoyed helping to prepare the questions.”

She added with a laugh: “I even delayed going into hospital when I went into labour with my daughter, just so I could watch the end of the show!”

Darragh Ennis shared his thoughts on the charity event: “I’ve done plenty of quizzes in schools, pubs, clubs and village halls, but this is the first time I’ve hosted one in a care home. It’s been a great way for everyone to spend a few hours together. And it’s been particularly meaningful for me because several of my relatives have lived in care homes, including my father, my grandmother, my aunts and my mother-in-law. Care homes do so much for people who need support, so I’m always happy to help however I can!”

Louise Allen, Home Manager at Longlands, helped organise the event. She said: “The event was sold out and it was lovely to see the heart of the home absolutely buzzing – the quiz brought out friendly competition, quick thinking, and plenty of laughter. A huge thank you to Darragh and all those who took part for supporting such a good cause!”

The care home is already busy planning more special events with Darragh.  Follow their page on Facebook for details.