Classic cars and bikes spark joy and memories for Hemel care home residents

A care home in Hemel Hempstead hosted a classic car and bike show to the delight of residents and their families.

The classic cars and motorbikes on display at Water Mill House Care Home prompted residents to reminisce and share stories, with many recalling their own experiences with similar vehicles.

Water Mill House, located on Rose Lane, provides residential and nursing care and is a dementia and palliative care specialist home.

Resident Craig Coverman, aged 60, is living with Parkinson’s and moved into Water Mill House in October 2023. He said: “Seeing that sleek black Ferrari instantly took me back to my Porsche days — the same thrill, the same elegance, just in a different badge!”

John Cousins, aged 92, said: “When I spotted the Morris Minor, I couldn’t help but remember my own. I drove one just like it when I worked for the Post Office. It was more than just transport it was part of my daily life.”

Peter Wakely, aged 81, added: “The Lotus 7 on display brought back a flood of memories. I used to own one, and the moment I saw it, I could almost feel the steering wheel in my hands again.”

The event was organised by the home’s lifestyle coordinator, Colin Levy, with help from one of the home’s respite residents, 87-year-old Robert Crawley, known as Bob.

“Our Car and Bike Fest is a celebration of classic engineering, style, and horsepower,” explained Colin.

“We had lots of support from the local community in helping us to secure a variety of vintage vehicles. But a special mention goes to Bob who helped to make the event a success by calling on his old contacts in the industry.”

Former engineer Bob has a passion for classic motorsport and has worked on engineering projects for noted figures within the industry, including assisting Neil Twyman with his 1932 Alfa Romeo, and Stanley Mann Racing with their legendary Blower Bentleys.

“I was thrilled to support Colin in organising and curating the vehicles for the care home’s first ever Car and Bike Fest,” said Bob.

“It was a fantastic afternoon, I had a wonderful time chatting with everyone about cars and motorbikes, and there was plenty of refreshments, including bacon rolls, teas and coffees, and even the odd beer!”

Colin added: “The display featured an eye-catching array of vehicles, from the iconic red and white 1950s Chevrolet to a charming British Morris Traveller – a true nostalgic highlight for many of our residents!

“For performance lovers we had the sleek lines of a Ferrari Stallion, a classic 1950s Lotus 7, and its modern successor the Caterham. We also had some standout motorcycles including a Harley-Davidson police bike and a beautifully preserved vintage British Ariel.”

Home manager Victoria Forsythe added: “It was a wonderful afternoon and a great experience for our residents. We’re looking forward to making it an annual event!”

The dedicated activities team at Water Mill House Care Home offer a varied programme catering for all hobbies and interests with access to a mini bus for days out and trips to nearby places of interest.