Retired medic gets cash to travel
RETIRED doctor Archie Walker sailed into a new life when he retired by cashing in on his property.
He turned to equity release in order to travel the world on luxury cruises.
He sought advice from leading over-55s financial specialist Key Retirement about equity release, a lifetime mortgage that is only repaid either when you die or move into long-term care.
“I was most impressed with the speed of their legal team and how they have dealt with the whole arrangement,” added Dr Walker, a former sports doctor for sportscotland. “I’ve created an alternative lifestyle by releasing my property wealth two years ago.
“I enjoyed my career, which included working with Team Scotland during the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and I now work part-time advising the World Curling Federation on anti-doping regulations.
“I’ve taken the plan out on my new home, which I’ve recently moved into. It’s a lovely cottage with a pleasant garden in a nice area. I’ve since taken up gardening, which is a relaxing new pastime.
“My new home is on a cycle path, so I’ve taken up cycling – a healthy and easy exercise. Once a week, I look after my two-year-old granddaughter, Emily, and I’m also a volunteer driver for the Red Cross, doing hospital runs.”
Since receiving the lump sum, Dr Walker has taken his partner, Mary Ross, a support worker, on cruises.
“Before taking out equity release, I wouldn’t have had any spare pennies for holidays. This year, we cruised the Baltic, visiting St Petersburg, which was the crown jewel of the holiday.
“Last year, we went on a river cruise down the Rhine and Danube, from Amsterdam to Budapest. Next year, I have a notion to travel to the Far East.”
For his work, Dr Walker will be travelling to South Korea in February next year to attend the Winter Olympics.”
He said: “I was able to make all the home improvements I wanted such as building a summer house in the garden and putting in new bathrooms.
“I love sitting out in my summer house taking in the view of Stirling Castle.
“Equity release has eased me into retirement without having any financial worries. I’m now looking forward to the rest of my life.”