Pompey fan Joan Hogg, aged 92, enjoyed a special day out at Fratton Park thanks to the ‘Sprinkle of Cinnamon’ initiative.
This helps residents of local care home Hartwood House to achieve unfulfilled ambitions and wishes.
Joan is a lifetime supporter of the Blues, but had not been to a match since her favourite player Peter Harris was in action more than 60 years ago.
Her ‘Sprinkle of Cinnamon’ request was to watch one more game at Fratton Park and cheer on her favourite side.
Hartwood House – part of the Cinnamon Care Collection – went the extra mile to make it a day to remember.
Joan had front row seats for the emphatic victory over Rochdale in April and also enjoyed a tour of the stadium, where she saw the boardroom, dressing room, trophy cabinet and tunnel.
Members of Hartwood House’s activities team helped her knit a scarf for the occasion, while she was accompanied at the game by activities coordinator Nancy Hall de Vuyst.
Joan said: “I had the best treatment from all staff at the stadium throughout the day. One of them kept checking to see if I wanted a blanket to keep me warm and another treated me to free hot drinks.
“I don’t know what I have done to deserve such an amazing day out, but I’m a lucky girl, aren’t I? I never thought I’d get to see the pitch again.
“I don’t know what I have done to deserve such an amazing day out, but I’m a lucky girl, aren’t I? I never thought I’d get to see the pitch again."
“As we left the stadium, one of the stewards asked if I could come to all the home games, as he thought I was a lucky charm – Portsmouth won 4-1!”
Moira Baxter, general manager of Hartwood House, added: “We take great pleasure in granting Sprinkle of Cinnamon wishes and creating memorable days for our residents.
“Sprinkle of Cinnamon is a great example of our focus on helping older people to live happier and more fulfilled lives. We are all so pleased that Joan had such a wonderful day out at Fratton Park.”
