Former cargo ship captain returns to the water for a special wish

A Stowmarket care home resident and former cargo ship captain has returned to the water more than 50 years after stepping away from his life at sea.

David Hampton, 81, a resident at Care UK’s Cedrus House, on Bittern Crescent, spent 11 years working at sea, rising through the ranks from cadet to second officer. His first voyage was aboard a cargo ship in 1961, and his career took him aboard several vessels before his final ship in 1972.

Recently, David’s son brought his father’s original seaman’s record book into Cedrus House, offering a fascinating glimpse into his years at sea and an opportunity for David to reminisce with the home’s other residents. The book is stamped and signed throughout, documenting David’s career from his first ship to his last.

David ultimately decided to leave life at sea behind after the birth of his son, choosing to stay closer to his wife and young family rather than spend long periods away from home.

Now, more than five decades later, David was able to experience the sights and sounds of life on the water once again, as he enjoyed a special boat trip aboard a vessel like those he once sailed.

During his day spent sailing on Waveney Stardust, David took in the views of the River Waveney and Oulton Broad, before enjoying a lunch on board – and later taking a turn behind the wheel of the boat.

Reflecting on his experience, David said: “The boat wasn't as big as the ones I'm used to!”

David’s experience was made possible thanks to Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies they’d like to try, places they’d like to visit or even activities linked to past careers. From skiing to a fish and chip supper, the programme is designed to help residents lead active and fulfilling lives.

Claire Martin, Home Manager at Cedrus House, said: “It’s been wonderful to hear David’s stories about his years at sea and see his seaman’s record book, which really brings his career to life. From starting out as a cadet to becoming a second officer, he certainly has some incredible memories to share.

“David made the decision to leave his career behind so he could be there for his family, so being able to give him the chance to return to the water all these years later is particularly special. We hope his boat trip brings back some happy memories and gives him the opportunity to enjoy being at sea once again.”

Cedrus House is a modern care home that provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, the building 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.