Loop South West

View Original

Residents relive their youth at Devon County Show

Residents from a specialist dementia care home in Wellington have been reliving happy days from their youth at last weekend’s Devon County Show at the Westpoint Arena and Showground in Clyst St Mary near Exeter.


A group of five, plus support staff from Camelot House and Lodge and two family members, made the most of the good weather and had an entertaining day inspecting the livestock, farm machinery, stalls and eating icecream.

Resident Bill Weston used to attend the Show regularly over the years, normally on the Thursday which was known as the Farmers’ Day. He has lifetime membership.

Another resident, Fred Grant, grew up on a farm and likes to share stories about how he used to milk the cows in the mornings before going to school.

Team leader Vlad Toma who was supporting the residents to make the most of their day out said: “It was a fab day out for our ladies and gents, with plenty to see and chat about.

“It was especially lovely for those who have memories of working or staying on farms in their youth, and they all loved seeing the animals.

“We appreciated that the showground is wheelchair friendly and access has generally been improved this year.

“We organise a lot of activities for our residents in the home, but it’s good to take them out for a change when there’s something as engaging as the County Show to visit.”

Camelot House and Lodge is run by award-winning dementia care provider Camelot Care who have other homes in Bridgwater, Plymouth and Yeovil.