Older residents solve murder mystery

Older residents in Cannock are playing detectives in a hunt to find a ‘murderer’ as part of a murder mystery month at an extra care scheme.

Residents at Vine Court, which is an extra care scheme for people mainly aged over 55, are taking part in a month of murder mystery-themed activities, including solving a murder and having a talk from police about how to catch killers.

Staff at Vine Court have set up a pretend murder scene and five members of staff are suspects. Each week residents receive a clue in their newsletter that eliminates a suspect and the person who correctly guesses the killer will win a prize.

As well as the murder mystery, other activities throughout the month include a talk from Staffordshire Police about how they catch a killer, and a short thriller story writing competition, which is being judged by Birmingham-born best selling author Roger John Ellory.

To round-off the month education and leisure officer at Vine Court David Payne has written a murder mystery play which is being performed by The Stafford Players at a special dinner for residents.

David explained: “The residents are always keen to have something fun and exciting to get involved with. We organise different themed months so there is something for all interests.

“There is a lot happening during the murder mystery month so residents can dip in and out of the activities as they want. They all like a good laugh so they are finding the murder mystery really exciting.”

Other themed months have included Italian, musicals, the royal wedding and Alice in Wonderland.

Resident Anne Thomas said: “The murder mystery month is one of the best themes we have had. It’s good fun getting the clues each week and piecing the mystery together.

“Residents are really looking forward to the play and dinner at the end of the month. The organised themes and events are a good way of bringing people together and we like to have a calendar of events to look forward to.”

For more information on Vine Court and other Care Plus extra care accommodation visit www.care-plus.org.uk