Marjorie, better known as ‘Marj’, Graves, resident at HC-One’s Fairway View Care Home, enjoyed an unforgettable experience after receiving VIP treatment at Nottingham Forest versus Leicester City match over the weekend.
Marj, who attended her first Nottingham Forest match in 1931 at the age of seven, has been a devoted fan for an incredible 93 years. Her inspiring story caught the attention of the club after Heidi Duffy, HC-One’s Fairway View Lifestyle Manager, shared it on Facebook and tagged Nottingham Forest.
The very next day, the club reached out, offering Marj four tickets to their executive box with full VIP treatment. On May 11, 2025, Marj’s dream came true when she arrived at the City Ground for the anticipated match often referred to as the East Midlands derby.
Marj gave a heartfelt pitch-side interview, received a signed Nottingham Forest t-shirt personalised with ‘Marj 101’ on the back, and met current players and club legends. The game ended in an exciting 2-2 draw, but for Marj, the scoreline was secondary to the warmth and welcome she received.
Marjorie Graves, HC-One’s Fairway View resident, said:
“It was a dream come true. Meeting the players and the Forest legends was fantastic – they all made me feel so welcome. I couldn’t believe it when I saw my name on the t-shirt. I could feel my dad and brother there with me in spirit.”
Melanie Hayes, HC-One’s Fairway View Care Home Manager, added:
“Nottingham Forest treated Marj like the Queen of Forest. She had the most amazing day; one she will never forget. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make her dream come true.”
Will D’Hooghe, Head of Fan Engagement at Nottingham Forest, expressed the club’s excitement:
“Everyone at Nottingham Forest has been looking forward to meeting Marj. She is a part of the Forest history and family. Meeting her was great – she has more Forest knowledge than me! I could get her a job leading our tours.”
A Nottingham Forest spokesperson added:
“Everybody at the Club was delighted to welcome Marj and her family to the game and give them a day full of moments to live long in their memories. She will always be an important part of our Forest Family.”
For more information about Fairway View Care Home and upcoming events, please contact the friendly team on 0115 975 8770, or email
[email protected].
Fairway View is a residential and residential dementia care home located on Swale Close in Bulwell and rated 9.8/10 on the care home review site, Carehome.co.uk. With 41 en-suite bedrooms and attractive décor, Fairway View is proud to offer person-centred care in a dignified manner, promoting independence as far as possible.