A nostalgic family trip to a childhood holiday destination in Hastings was just the tonic for a resident at Acorn Court.
The team at Acorn Court, in the Kilns, Redhill, arranged the family trip to create new memories for Maisie after learning of the special meaning it has.
Maisie, who grew up in South London, has fond memories of Hastings spanning over five decades, starting from her childhood visits and the many years she spent there with her family.
“I have so many wonderful memories of Hastings,” Maisie said.
“From family trips to the beach at Bulverhythe to walks along the Pier and Promenade, it always felt like a home away from home. My parents made a lot of good friends there over the years.
“Holidays were rare, but one photograph on the beach at Hastings with my parents and brother, just before the war has always stayed with me.
“My favourite places are the Two Sawyers and Royal Oak pubs in Pett as well as George Street and the White Rock Hotel where I’ve stayed many times.
“It was really special to return there and spend time with my family who mean so much to me.”
Having been evacuated twice during World War II—once to Brighton in 1940 and again to Barnsley in 1944—Maisie’s childhood was often disrupted.
In the 1960s, Maisie and her family began visiting Hastings and nearby Bodiam, eventually buying a static caravan at Coombe Haven, St Leonards, in 1969.
It was a significant purchase for the family, and marked the start of Maisie’s long-standing connection to Hastings, where she would return hundreds of times over the years.
The lifestyle team at the 86-bed home, which provides residential, nursing, dementia, specialist acquired brain injury and compassionate end-of-life care, arranged the trip after hearing Maisie’s stories.
Maisie was able to revisit her favourite spots, including the beautiful East Cliff and the Firehills in Hastings Country Park.
“We were thrilled to make this trip possible for Maisie,” said care home manager, Paula Deadman.
“We know how much Hastings means to her, and it was heartwarming to hear how much she enjoyed revisiting those special places.
“Our team are always looking to arrange meaningful experiences for our residents, helping them to not only relive special experiences but also create new ones.
“For Maisie, Hastings holds countless memories, so being able to take her back there was a truly rewarding experience for all of us.”