Activities at Chater Lodge Care Home

Resident’s and staff joined together on St Georges Day, a time honoured tradition enjoyed with pride across England. On this day we paid tribute to our patron saint, St. George, celebrated for his legendary courage and unwavering sense of honour. Across the country, we came together to respect our rich heritage, waving the flag of St George proudly and partaking in festivities with in our home.

We are delighted to be in the news to celebrate the remarkable achievement and story of one of our much loved residents, Eve who recently received her war medal after 80-years.  We welcomed the BBC to the home who came to interview Eve as part of this year’s VE Day stories and history.

RAF surprises war veteran with her service medal after 80 years.

WAAF servicewomen, Eve Hillier, a 97 year old resident at Barchester’s Chater Lodge was presented with her war medal in a surprise ceremony.

Eve never received her medal and so her family contacted the RAF to find out if it was possible. We were delighted when Wing Commander Nicola J Duncan MA MCIPD, Station Commander from RAF Wittering kindly agreed to award Eve her medal in a surprise ceremony today.

In early 1945 Eve went to RAF North Weald, near Epping Forest in Kent, a front line fighter pilot airfield. There she looked after Group Captain Douglas Bader, a Fighter Pilot Ace, who took command of North Weald on his release from Colditz in April 1945.

During her service at North Weald she was asked to take part in a recruitment film for the RAF, this film still exists in the BBC Archives.

Eves family travelled from France and Wales to attend this special ceremony. Eve we thank you for your service . #RAF #veteran

Residents across our homes and hospitals had a fantastic time with vocal coach Dan Cooper from Biiah as he led an amazing sing-a-long session for residents to enjoy.

Residents who joined the event were able to learn different techniques as they sang the famous ‘I Can See Clearly Now’ by Jimmy Cliff and ‘Here Comes the Sun’ by The Beatles.

Across our homes there were smiles and laugher all around. The session was such a success and was great for the mind, body and soul.

Resident’s and staff got to meet Julia and her dogs Willow and Gibson, she visited residents in their rooms. Julia is the local dog trainer and works at a vets, so was able to answer any of the resident’s questions they might have had. Julia is most famous for her and her team winning at Crufts in 2016. Resident’s got to engage with Willow and Gibson, give them treats and watch them do their tricks.

An impromptu Karaoke session took place in our Honey Pot lane lounge, which when one resident started singing more residents engaged in this events. They sang songs from their favourite musician’s alongside the classics from Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and even Kylie Minogue.