Ex-footballer enjoys World Cup nostalgia at care home

A former England youth football player enjoyed some World Cup nostalgia at his care home just days before the national side face Norway in the 2026 quarter finals.

David Martin, 83, a resident at Care UK's Martlet Manor in Haywards Heath, took part in an event on Thursday, which saw residents team up with children from St Josephs Catholic Primary School for a walking football game.

The day was designed to spark nostalgia and bring people together through a love of sport.

David, had previously played for sides in Carshalton and Wimbledon in London, and Dorking, in Surrey, as well as the Under-19s England squad.

He said: "Football is a fantastic way of bringing people together across generations because teamwork is important whatever your age."

He added: "Being selected for the England Amateur Under-19s was a real highlight and I was over the moon. One of my favourite memories was playing alongside players who later went on to become famous names in the game.

"It's amazing to think about players like Harry Kane who have followed the England Under-19 pathway over the years."

Lorraine McLean, the care home's lifestyle lead, said: "It was a great day opening our doors to St Joseph's Catholic Primary School to take part in walking football, and we loved seeing how happy it made David to be back in touch with his football roots again.

"For many of our residents, it's more than just a beautiful game – it represents a lifetime of treasured memories and traditions.

"It was a lovely opportunity to bring different generations together, and we'll all be cheering England on to go all the way."

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