Challenge gets over-65s active
Five residents from a retirement village in Faygate have challenged themselves to walk the equivalent of Land’s End to John O’Groats to help them stay active during the latest Covid-19 lockdown.
The group of over-65s from Durrants retirement village are collectively walking 1,083 miles – the length of the UK – in and around the village grounds and the beautiful surroundings near Durrants, which is owned and operated by later living provider Inspired Villages.
Among the residents taking part are Roger Chaplin, 73, and his wife Margaret, 72.
Roger said: “We started the walking challenge about a week after the official start. We go out walking twice a day, every day (once in the morning and once in the afternoon).
“Our regular route is about 1.3 miles, which takes us around the grounds of Durrants Village. The grounds are 30 acres and they include a meadow and a lake.
“We wanted to take part in the walking challenge because we’re doing the walking anyway. We pretty much go out in all weathers.
“We’ve been out in the rain, snow, and frost. I have an app on my phone to record my miles. And even though we’ve finished the challenge, Margaret and I will continue going out for walks.”
Margaret added: “The walking gives us focus to our day. It’s a break in the morning and in the afternoon from being at home. I feel more positive and I hate it when we don’t go out. During our walks I like to see the surroundings change with the seasons, for example seeing the daffodils come out.”
The idea for the challenge came from Inspired Village’s wellness navigator, Leah Jackson, who wanted to help improve the residents’ physical and mental wellbeing during the coronavirus pandemic.
Liam Stack, village manager at Durrants, said the residents were always keen to take on a challenge – and this time was no different.
He said: “This challenge is another of Leah’s fantastic ideas to keep the residents happy and healthy through the pandemic.
“They’ve all taken on the challenge and haven’t been put off by the unpredictable winter weather.
“The challenge has been great for the village and some socially distanced celebrations will most definitely be on the cards. Well done, everyone.”
Jamie Bunce, chief executive of Inspired Villages, congratulated the Durrants residents for an incredible effort.
He said: “It just goes to show that retirement is no longer simply about putting your feet up and taking it easy.
“Nowadays, later life is about having the time and freedom to try new things and embrace opportunities.”