Residents and team members at Moat House Care Home in Burbage came together in a heartfelt tribute to honour those who have served, joining forces with the Royal British Legion for this year’s Remembrance Service.
The highlight of the occasion saw Moat House resident Robert “Bob” Payne proudly participating in the community parade through Burbage, where a commemorative wreath was laid on Bob’s behalf. Bob, a former Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineer, shared powerful memories of his military service during an interview with Zoe Bayliss, Moat House’s Activity Lead.
Called up at just 18 years old, Bob was first stationed in Northern Ireland before being posted to Maralinga, Australia. There, he played a vital role trailing test vehicles involved in bomb testing, ensuring immediate assistance in the event of breakdowns. “I saw an Atom Bomb from just seven miles away,” Bob recalled. “It was that hot, it was turning the sand into glass.” He described his service with deep pride, saying he “loved every moment” of his time in the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers.
The home was also adorned with a stunning array of handmade poppies, as residents and visitors created over 500 poppies for various displays throughout the home. Residents Maureen Payne and Barbara Wilkes together knitted a remarkable 300 of these poppies, with Maureen even crafting a miniature likeness of Activity Coordinator Amy McDonald’s son, Jack, dressed in his army uniform.
A special addition to the display included a model plane made by visitor Paul Sanderson, which was featured as part of the home’s central remembrance piece.
Following the parade, residents were treated to the stirring sounds of bagpiper Reece Fitter. It was a memorable day of reflection, respect, and community spirit.
For more information or pictures from the day, check out our Facebook Page.
Or for more information on life at Moat House, visit our homes page.
