Sandfields resident snaps up photography gallery

Home news

May 13, 2017

An 86-year-old Sandfields resident snapped up the opportunity to showcase his photography talents in an exclusive gallery.

Howard Mills, from Sandfields has been sharing his landscape photography with fellow residents and guests.

Howard pursued his passion for photography when he retired from his role at the age of 62. He joined a local sixth form and embarked on gaining 13 City & Guilds qualifications in photography and architecture.  

The team at Sandfield’s has supported Howard to continue his hobby, and suggested a gallery would be fantastic opportunity to showcase his work - particularly local landscapes of Gloucestershire scenery.

Howard said: “It’s great to be able to showcase my photography at Sandfields and share my passion with the residents. I am still taking photographs, and hope to continue my hobby into my nineties!”

Deanna Lane, home manager at Sandfields, said: “When we found out that Howard was a keen photographer we wanted to make sure that he could continue his hobby while living at Sandfields.

We organised for Howard to lead a talk to residents about photography, and always encourage him to continue taking photos in the home, Howard even has a photo printer in his room, which he frequently uses.

“We couldn’t wait to set up a gallery of Howard’s pictures for residents and guests to enjoy, he was absolutely thrilled with the result and it is lovely to see his work being appreciated.”

Howard Mills was born in Alveston, near Bristol in 1930, and has lived in Gloucestershire for all his life. He joined the army aged 18 where he became a butcher in charge of distribution, after 2 years, he moved to Tetbury, it was here that he met his wife Elizabeth.

Howard and Elizabeth enjoyed a long and happy marriage and moved to Cheltenham in 1994 to be closer to town after living in the surrounding countryside for much of their life together. 

At the age of 62, Howard retired and pursued his passion for photography. He led talks in the community and volunteered at local centres to encourage others to get involved in photography.

Howard has two children, Roger and Anne, and three grandchildren. After moving into Sandfields in March 2016 after a fall at home, Howard regularly gets involved in activities at the care home – particularly the crossword events.