Sailing challenge crew stops by at Edinburgh care home

A veteran sailing crew has docked for a special visit to a care home in Edinburgh as part of its Invictus tour.

Care UK’s Murrayside, on South Beechwood, opened its doors to members of the team taking on the Full Circle Expedition as they continued their 2,000-mile, 12-week journey around the UK aboard two tall ships.

Co-ordinated by veteran charity Turn to Starboard and carrying the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 flag, the Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew are being sailed by a rotating crew of 70 wounded, injured and sick veterans and serving personnel who are using the challenge to help rebuild their lives after service.

The voyage began in Cornwall and, following a stop in Leith, the crew made a special visit to the Corstorphine care home.

During the visit, the team shared stories from their journey, while crew member Will Keating treated residents to a special guitar performance to bring the afternoon to a memorable close.

Resident Pat Wood, 83, said: “It was great! They're on an incredible journey and I wish them all the best.”

Suzanne Welsh, Home Manager at Murrayside, added: “As a Veteran Friendly Framework-accredited home, we are committed to recognising and supporting those who have served in the armed forces. 

“It was such a special day welcoming the expedition team. The work they are doing is incredibly important, helping to shine a light on the power of the Invictus Games and the life‑changing impact of Turn to Starboard.

“Hearing the crew share their stories and spend time chatting with residents was truly memorable and meant a great deal to everyone involved. We wish the crew fair winds and following seas as they continue on their incredible voyage.”

Murrayside is a state-of-the-art care home that incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, including a cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.