Residents from Hambleton Grange care home in Thirsk were surprised with a special trip onboard ‘The Pride of Ripon’ narrowboat to sail down the Ripon canal.
Boarding at the Ripon Canal Basin, the residents enjoyed the scenic cruise to Oxclose Lock, taking in the sights with a delicious picnic whilst waving at passers-by.
84-year-old resident, John Sargent, said he had ‘a fantastic day’. John used to work for The New Zealand Shipping Company as a Master Mariner, taking charge of cargo ships that carried goods overseas.
John continued, ‘I really enjoyed being on a boat again, it was reminiscent of my time as a Master Mariner. I particularly liked having the responsibility of holding the mooring rope for the skipper as we went through the locks.’
Another resident, 90-year-old Mary Pollard, added, ‘It reminded me of going out on boat trips in York as a child. The weather was wonderful, and I enjoyed the picnic – it was a perfect day.’
Sandra Anderson, the Home Manager at Hambleton Grange, said, ‘We couldn’t have asked for a better day for our residents! The sun was shining, and everyone shared their memories of spending time on the water.
‘When planning special trips like this for our residents, we like to find activities that are meaningful to them. Seeing their smiles and listening to them reminisce was amazing, especially watching John help sail the narrowboat!’
To find out more about life at Hambleton Grange, please call 01845 523 837 or email hambleton.grange@idealcarehomes.co.uk.
Hambleton Grange care home, on Station Road in Thirsk, is a purpose-built luxury care home operated by Ideal Carehomes. With an all-inclusive fee and 24-hour, person-centred care, it is rated GOOD by the Care Quality Commission.