Stretford: Care home sisters share secret to their special bond

Iris Brown, 80 and Annette Barr, 82 moved into Rose Court care home in Radcliffe in 2019 and 2021 respectively after Iris’ husband made arrangements for them to be in the same care home so they could still see each other.

Annette and Iris with their mum (Image: HC-One)

Born 18 months apart during the Second World War, they grew up around the Swinton and Eccles areas and both went to Stretford Grammar School for Girls.

They are keen gardeners and shoppers, have always shared a great sense of humour and were always very close to their parents.

One particular love they share is animals, especially cats, and at one point they had around eight cats between them.

Annette and Iris at a family wedding (Image: HC-One)

Despite their similarities, Annette and Iris have also lived very different lives.

Annette never married and always lived at home with her mum and dad.

She worked in insurance for more than 40 years and is very creative and arty.

Iris worked in shops for around 10 years before she became a full-time housewife.

Apart from a couple of spells of Iris living in Surrey, the sisters have lived close by each other.

Speaking ahead of Siblings Day (Wednesday, April 10), Iris’ daughter Rachel Butterworth said: “Although only a small family, we always had Christmases and Easters at one house or the other, with plenty of food and fun!”

Wellbeing coordinator at Rose Court Allison Porter said: “We love having Iris and Annette at Rose Court.

“They live on different floors but spend quality time together, often before they go to sleep at night, they love a good chat in the lounge.”

Annette and Iris at Rose Court (Image: HC-One)

When asked what their secret to a strong sister bond is, Annette added: “Regular cups of tea together!”