Extra Time kicks off at Britten Court and Roman Hill Primary School

Extra Time started this week at Britten Court Residential Care Home, where artists Caitlin and Jen guided a group of residents in creating their own personalised rosettes.

From passionate fans to those who were less interested in the game, the group shared personal and family stories, and even suggested some ‘warm-up’ exercises for the children; star jumps, knees-up, and touching their toes.

“I enjoyed sharing my stories,” commented one resident, whilst another added, “It’s different. I really enjoyed watching what other people were doing.”

The staff were wonderful, joining in with the activities and sharing their own stories, as in Rachel’s revelation that: –

“My mum has had a kick about with Kevin Keagan and my dad, a policeman back then, has carried the Champion League cup through the airport and the trophy with 3 handles.”

In the afternoon, Jen and Caitlin visited Roman Hill Primary School, where a group of excited children awaited them.

Together, they looked at a pack of Archive All-Stars football cards, produced from documents held by Suffolk Archives.

From the Waves – who were the WFA Cup winners in 1981-82 – to a gentleman who played for Pakefield Harriers, having first collected sand from the beach to mark out the pitch, the children were introduced to local figures who ‘played’ a significant role in the footballing history of Lowestoft.

When asked what they wanted to get out of taking part in Extra Time, the children talked about ‘learning the how’s and why’s of football’, ‘getting better at art and history’ and ‘meeting new people and making new friends’.

Hopefully, they will get to do all that – and more – over the coming Extra Time season.