The Croft Owner’s Tribute to Feature on BBC Desert Island Discs

Simon Spiller, co-owner of The Croft Residential Home in Newton Abbot Devon, was one of a handful of people, selected from thousands, to participate in a special edition of the long running BBC Radio 4 programme, Desert Island Discs.

The team at Radio 4 recently issued an invitation for members of the public to tell them about one piece of music they have turned to in the recent weeks of lockdown, and the story behind their choice.  “I chose a song I have listened to for comfort during an exceptionally difficult time at The Croft” explained Simon.  “We had a confirmed outbreak of COVID-19 and one resident fatality caused by the virus, which was devastating for all of us.  The song helped me cope with the stress of that situation” he added.

Simon was told by the programme’s Producer that well over two thousand members of the public had applied to have a song included in the special edition, Your Desert Island Discs.  “I was delighted to be chosen.  My disc has soothed and inspired me because the vocals are supreme and the lyrics very positive” Simon said.  “But, also because the sentiment expressed in the song reminds me of the amazing team we have at The Croft.  Day after day during our COVID-19 outbreak our carers have put themselves in harm’s way to protect and care for our lovely residents.  I do not underestimate the bravery this took and I find it inspiring.” 

To hear Simon’s Desert Island Disc, tune in to BBC Radio 4 on Friday 5th June at 9:00am, or later that day at 11:00pm. Click for more information on Your Desert Island Discs.

The Croft Residential Home specialises in dementia care for 22 residents.  Our caring staff take the time needed to understand residents’ individual needs and the unique view of the world they experience, so that the support they receive is highly personalised.

Feature Image – Simon being interviewed by Lauren Lavern of BBC Radio 4