Chelmsford care home resident has blooming brilliant day

A resident at a care home in Chelmsford has enjoyed a special trip down memory lane with a visit to a much-loved garden.

Rita Thomas, who lives at Care UK's Manor Lodge on Manor Road, had her wish granted when the team arranged a trip to RHS Garden Hyde Hall – a place that holds many happy memories for her.

As a lifelong gardener and birdwatcher, Rita, 92, was once a regular visitor to the 365-acre site, often spending the day exploring the grounds with her granddaughter Charlotte. Keen to reconnect with a place that had played such a special part in her life, the team at Manor Lodge organised the visit.

As she wandered through the gardens, Rita was overcome with emotion as happy memories came flooding back, including time spent gardening with her late husband, David.

There was plenty for Rita to enjoy, from the colourful flowerbeds to peaceful spaces, but the vibrant waterlilies were the stars of the show. Rita relished the opportunity to discover different plants, explore the individual gardens and listen to the birds.

She said: "Visiting Hyde Hall brought back so many happy memories as I used to come here with Charlotte. 

“It was so special to return and enjoy the beautiful flowers and listen to the birds singing. I cannot wait to visit again.”

Natasha Webster, Home Manager at Manor Lodge, added: “We know how important it is for residents to continue enjoying the hobbies and places that have shaped their lives. Gardening has always been a huge part of Rita’s life, so helping her to reconnect with a place that means so much to her was incredibly special.

“It was wonderful to see Rita in her element at the gardens, surrounded by beautiful flowers and cherished memories. We’re very grateful to everyone at RHS Garden Hyde Hall for helping to create such an incredible day.”

Manor Lodge, rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, is a modern care home that provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead enjoyable and fulfilling lives, it has its very own cinema, café and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.