Lucas gives carol concert for his grandad — finally!

Talented Lucas Richmond had hoped to bring seasonal spirit to Moorgate Croft care home in the run-up to Christmas, having been invited by staff who had heard him singing in previous visits to his grandad, Barrie Richmond, who has dementia.

With the home having Covid precautions in place to protect residents over the festive holidays, the Aston Academy student had to put off the visit — but returned as soon as he was able.

“Lucas has a talent for singing,” said mum Karen Richmond. “I know I’m biased but he has a beautiful voice.

“For the last 12 months has been a chorister at Rotherham Minster, although he’s taking a break at the moment.

“Barrie used to sing himself in a choir in Sheffield and when Lucas starts singing, it’s like it brings Barrie back to reality.

“Sometimes Barrie’s dementia means he asks ‘what am I doing?’ or even forgets who Lucas is. But Lucas just says ‘Come on, papa — let’s sing one of your songs!’ 

“It’s like this light has just come back on again in his eyes and sometimes he will sing along.”

Lucas, who lives in Swallownest with mum Karen, dad Glenn and older brother Jake, performed a playlist of lively Christmas hits interspersed with carols for residents at the home on Nightingale Road.  

Karen added: “The staff often tell us that Lucas’ performances cheer Barrie right up and that he has been brilliant for the rest of the day so we hope that his carol service will bring a bit of belated Christmas cheer to all the residents, too.”