Residents, Families and Farm Friends Come Together for a Memorable Day

The event, held in our beautiful grounds, brought together people of all ages and raised more than £500 for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Residents were delighted to welcome a variety of traditional British farm animals to the home, thanks to Mill Cottage Farm Experience. Throughout the afternoon, visitors enjoyed meeting and interacting with the animals, creating wonderful opportunities for conversation, reminiscence and family fun.

Adding an extra element of adventure, guests also had the chance to experience the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance helicopter flight simulator. Many embraced the challenge of taking the controls and testing their flying skills, with plenty of smiles and friendly competition along the way.

For Activities Co-ordinator Christine Farmery, the event was particularly special because of the way it brought generations together.

“It’s lovely to organise events that bring every generation together,” said Christine. “We had residents, their children and grandchildren spending quality time together, enjoying new experiences and creating wonderful memories. Seeing everyone smiling, laughing and sharing the day was truly special.”

Resident Mrs Ottewill thoroughly enjoyed the occasion and was pleased that the afternoon supported an important local cause.

“It was a marvellous afternoon,” she said. “Not only was it lovely to see old friends and family enjoying time together, but it was wonderful to know we were also raising money for such a worthwhile cause.”

Among those keen to take to the virtual skies was The Dower House’s Head Gardener, Ben Weatherall, who proudly earned his virtual flying badge.

“I really enjoyed having a go on the helicopter flight simulator and even managed to fly over The Dower House to see our glorious grounds from above,” said Ben. “The simulator was incredibly realistic, but the best part of the day was seeing how much everyone was enjoying themselves together in the gardens.”

The event is one of many activities organised by The Dower House to ensure residents continue to enjoy meaningful experiences, maintain strong family connections and remain closely involved with the local community.

Chief Operating Officer Chris Golding said the day perfectly reflected the home’s values.

“At The Dower House, we believe that life should continue to be filled with new experiences, opportunities and moments of joy,” he said. “This event brought together residents, families and the wider community in a way that perfectly reflects our values, and we are delighted to have raised such a fantastic amount for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.”

With sunshine, smiling faces, plenty of animal encounters and even a chance to pilot a helicopter, the day was a wonderful example of how residents at The Dower House continue to enjoy vibrant, engaging experiences while making a positive difference to the wider community.