Residents across Forest Care enjoyed a busy and memorable season filled with outings, entertainment, celebrations and community events. Cedar Lodge residents visited lavender fields and enjoyed a pub lunch, while residents from Rowan Lodge and Elm Lodge explored sunflower fields and later grew their own blooms. Oak Lodge residents visited the Overton Scarecrow Festival and welcomed the Purple Company Choir, while Holly Lodge enjoyed a heartwarming visit from animals at Miller’s Ark Farm.
Afternoon Tea Week brought homemade treats, themed activities and special events to all homes. Residents also enjoyed observing the solar eclipse, sparking conversation and curiosity.
Special moments included Oak Lodge resident Nick reconnecting with his love of horses during a visit to Forever Loved Horse Therapy, and Rowan Lodge residents celebrating seaside-themed activities inspired by trips to Southsea. Cedar Lodge residents enjoyed a River Wey boat trip, a Crufts-inspired dog show, and plenty of outdoor adventures.
Community engagement remained a key focus. Residents attended a Veterans’ Garden Party, welcomed the Surrey Jivers for music and dancing, and enjoyed visits from local school students sharing their STEM Racing success. Oak Lodge celebrated award-winning success at the Oakley Village Show, while Elm Lodge resident Millie shared fascinating memories of her 43-year career with Huntley & Palmers.
A highlight of the season was Rowan Lodge residents Ree and Bryan celebrating an incredible 75 years of marriage.
Forest Care also received national recognition, being named one of the UK’s Top 10 Small Care Providers in the Lottie Awards 2026, while Cedar Lodge, Elm Lodge, Oak Lodge and Rowan Lodge were all ranked among the UK’s Top 100 Care Homes. Oak Lodge additionally earned Top 10 awards for Wellbeing and Outdoor Space.
Maureen and Bernard’s remarkable story began in 1947 when they met at Luton Co-op. Married in 1954, they built a happy family life and shared a love of travel, exploring destinations across the world, including a memorable Concorde trip for their 40th anniversary. After 51 years in Cheshire, they moved to Basingstoke in 2022. Now at Oak Lodge, the couple enjoy an active lifestyle, new friendships and recently celebrated 72 wonderful years of marriage.
Claire Lambert joined Rowan Lodge as an Activities Organiser after a successful 30-year career as a primary school teacher. Rowan Lodge already held a special place in her heart, having cared for her father, Rod, in 2022. She enjoys creating meaningful experiences for residents, from themed events to one-to-one chats that celebrate their life stories. Outside work, Claire enjoys wild swimming, crafts and family travel, and is actively involved in community volunteering, intergenerational projects and adult literacy support.
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