Generous donations have enabled a new Summer House to be built and officially opened at the Lake House Residential Care Home, The Green, Adderbury.
The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT), the UK’s second largest not for profit care home provider, built the Summer House extension, named ‘Luke’s House’, after being given two substantial donations from a former resident and local housing association.
A donation was given by Francesco ‘Luke’ Lucas from Adderbury, who was a resident at the care home for a number of years. Anna Hicks, Manager of Lake House said: “Luke was a popular man, and a joy to be around. He was with us for two years before he sadly passed away. He had a love for the outdoors, his two passions being gardening and playing tennis. He used to tell me many stories about his days as a tennis coach to John McEnroe.
“It would mean so much to him to know that his donation has been spent on creating a special area where residents can relax and even grow their own herbs and vegetables which will be used by our on-site chef.”
Caroline Lucas, Luke’s niece, is pleased that OSJCT has used the donation in creating something fruitful and long-lasting: “We are delighted to know that the donation has been used to create something in Luke’s memory. Luke’s House is a wonderful extension to the home, and will be a great addition to the residents facilities, allowing them to share in my uncle’s passion for gardening.”
Bray D’Oyly Housing Association Ltd, which ran sheltered accommodation for the elderly at East House in Adderbury, which closed over 12 months ago, has also made a donation towards the new Summer House.
Martin Thomas, a trustee of Bray D’Oyly, said: “It was obviously extremely distressing having to dissolve our association, but it is a great consolation to know that the money will be helping elderly residents in the local area.
“It is our pleasure to support the new Summer House development. We wanted to give donations which we were sure would have a positive impact on the care for elderly people in Oxfordshire, and this development will provide a fantastic resource for the residents at Lake House,” added Martin.
Dan Hayes, OSJCT County Director Oxfordshire said, “We are immensely grateful to both Luke and the Bray D’Oyly Housing Association for these two donations. They have enabled us to create a new environment for the residents, which will provide an all year-round space for the residents to enjoy new activities, allowing more variety in their daily lives.”
Caroline and Luke’s sister, Beris Rae-Taylor and a representative from Bray D’Oyly were all at the event, and officially opened the Summer House, by naming it ‘Luke’s House’, in front of an audience of residents, staff and friends of Lake House, local businesses and councillors.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of The Orders of St John Care Trust by Lava. For further information contact Louise or Becky at Lava on 01522 842 800 / louise@lavapr.co.uk or becky@lavapr.co.uk
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