Liz Thomson, an Activities Coordinator at Balhousie Huntly care home, has just celebrated her 80th birthday. Most people when they reach their eighties are thinking about slowing down, but not Liz.

Busting many myths along the way, Liz leads the events calendar in the Aberdeenshire residential home for dozens of residents, organising daily activities, from afternoon teas and coffee mornings to knitting clubs and card games – and all with a spring in her step.

Born in Portsoy, Liz worked in hospitality for many years and even ran her own hotel in the rural village of Rhynie before joining the Balhousie Huntly family when the home opened in 2012. In that time, Liz, who lives in Huntly, has built friendships with many of the residents, some of whom she is actually older than.

Home manager Richard Lake, who recently joined the team himself, has been amazed by Liz’s energy. “Every time I see Liz, she is always on the move, doing something great with our residents,” Richard said. “She’s very caring and empathetic. Being older, she has a wonderful understanding and rapport with our residents. She’s tremendously hard working – and at 80 years-young it’s very inspiring. On behalf of everyone here at Balhousie Huntly I’d like to wish Liz a very happy 80th birthday.”

Liz is humble about her impact at the care home. It’s all just ‘every day’ to her. “I have tried retiring before,” Liz explains, “but I like working!” Liz has worked in many roles at Balhousie Huntly including in the laundry team, kitchen and domestic teams, but she loves her role in the activities team most. “I really enjoy the time I spend with the residents. I’ve known some of them for nine years now, so organising and leading activities is always enjoyable.”

Huntly is currently seeking carers and another activities coordinator to join their team. Balhousie refer to their colleagues as Everyday Heroes. Liz is certainly one! If you’re interested in joining Liz and the team at Balhousie Huntly please visit www.balhousiecare.co.uk/careers or email careers@balhousiecare.co.uk