Bexhill Elvis tribute artist keeps care home residents entertained through lockdown

Andy King, who works part-time at Southlands Place in Bexhill as a maintenance officer, usually sings in care homes across 1066 Country during the week and in pubs and clubs at the weekends.

But the lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic has led to him improvising and offering free shows in the car parks of care homes, which have proved to be a hit with residents.

Andy said: “Since lockdown I have been unable to sing as normal but my manager has kindly given me a full-time role at the home, as I have lost income due to lockdown.

“I decided to reach out to the care homes, perform and offer them a free show in open spaces on the weekend to keep residents smiling.

“I’ve been a Elvis tribute artist for nearly five years. It started when I worked at Hastings Uunited FC doing a charity show for them. Since then it’s gone from strength to strength.

“I’ve always wanted to entertain and I get satisfaction from seeing other people happy. I’ve also contributed to a lot of charity work in the region and further afield.”

Andy recently performed outside Hastings Court, entertaining residents and the home on The Ridge posted a video of his show on its Facebook page.

Dan Peacock, from the lifestyle team at Hastings Court, said: “Andy is a fantastic entertainer, he comes here regularly and all the residents love him.

“Performing in the car park was a different setting for him but he went up and down the length of the home, making sure everyone got to see him. We’re looking forward to him coming back, whether that’s inside or outside.”

Georgina Gamble, the home’s senior general manager, said: “The staff team have performed for residents with music and dancing in the garden but we thought they would appreciate some proper entertainment.

“Our lifestyles team have been fantastically creative in thinking of ways to bring music to our residents, and it’s put smiles on everyone’s faces.

“To see the windows of the home full of people dancing and clapping has been wonderful.”

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