Barry Says ‘Bon Voyage’ To HRH Prince Philip

Barry Freestone (90) a resident at Kiwi House Care Home in Alvaston, Derby looks back at fond memories of his time in the Navy, serving with HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh on the eve of his funeral. Barry Says ‘Bon Voyage’ To HRH Prince Philip.

Barry served on HMS Chequers, a destroyer based in Malta which Prince Philip served on for a time before he was promoted to Lieutenant Commander, when the Duke finally took command of his own ship, the frigate HMS Magpie.

Barry recalls being introduced to the Duke and HRH Princess Elizabeth as the Duke showed his new wife around HMS Chequers. “He was an inspiration to us all, a pleasure to meet, they both were. I remember him as an immensely capable officer who drove himself as hard as his men. He could also be a bit cheeky as he rushed queen up the ladder saying, come on then, giving her a cheeky push-up. He will be missed.”

Barry spent many years in the Navy and still enjoys a varied and active lifestyle through many of the social clubs at Kiwi House including the gardening club and enjoys spending time watching Naval films in the cinema or taking part in Maritime fancy dress-themed days.

“Barry loved life in the Navy, he still does his morning exercise routine, I spot him on his sit-ups,” said Sophie, the activities lead.

Barry takes part in Naval themed days and his morning exercise routine.

Residents go vegan and discover there is far more to Veganuary than ‘meats’ the eye!

With veganism becoming one of the UK’s fastest-growing lifestyle movements and with an estimated 7,000 vegetarians and vegans in residential and nursing care homes, Hospitality Manager, Rebecca Lambert at Kiwi House decided to introduce residents to the plant-based diet by holding a vegan festival during the month of January, or better known as ‘Veganuary’.

“I am taking part in Veganuary this year and when the residents heard about it, they asked me: “What can you eat? Can you still eat chocolates and sweets? Don’t you miss meat?” I wanted to show them how diverse and interesting vegan food can be.”

Adept Care Homes continues to expand its team and is delighted to welcome Kenny Nelson as its newly appointed Business Director for its Midlands-based care homes.

Kenny brings with him a wealth of experience and extensive knowledge following 7 years working alongside Adept Care Homes as Relationship Director with RBS and later, as Senior Director, Health & Social Care with CYB (Clydesdale & Yorkshire Bank).