Honouring Remembrance Day Across Our Communities
This week, many of our independent retirement communities across England have been marking Remembrance Day in their own special way, with touching tributes and meaningful occasions that bring residents together to reflect and remember.
One estate we manage in Uckfield, East Sussex, has a truly inspirational story to share. Among its residents is an 87-year-old gentleman Joe Spicer, who dedicated several days to supporting the Royal British Legion. Stationed at his local Tesco, he ran a collection stall, raising funds and engaging with younger generations about the importance of the RBL and its work.
Joe and many others have collected over £12,000 this year alone using the debit card machine with the collection boxes yet to be counted. Uckfield is the 3rd highest area for RBL collections in East Sussex. Last year the town raised £22,000 and this year are on target for £25,000 which is quite a remarkable achievement.
Joe’s commitment and enthusiasm are an absolute credit to Shaftesbury Court and a shining example of the many talented and passionate individuals who call our communities home.
Another moving tribute took place at our retirement development in Langley (Berkshire), where residents honoured the memory of Major A.M. Lafone VC of the 1st County of London Yeomanry—a Great Uncle of one of the residents there. The display included a letter confirming that Major Lafone was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously, the highest award for valour. His medal is preserved at Dulwich College alongside three others. To put this into perspective: since its introduction in 1856, out of tens of millions who have served, only 1,355 people have received the Victoria Cross. This remarkable story reminds us of the courage and sacrifice behind every name we remember today.
We are grateful to all our estates for continuing to share these uplifting stories with us. They remind us of the incredible contributions our residents make—not only within their communities but far beyond.