Developing Our Garden With Dig for Dementia!
Residents at Harrier Grange enjoyed a refreshing and fulfilling afternoon in the sunshine this month, as the garden came to life during a special session with Jack from Dig for Dementia. The event took place in our outdoor space and offered residents the chance to spend time in the fresh air while making our gardens even more beautiful.
The group was led by Jack and planted colourful hanging baskets filled with vibrant blooms. It was a lovely opportunity for everyone to get involved, whether selecting flowers, gently planting, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. The fresh air and shared sense of purpose have made the afternoon feel even more rewarding, and the garden is now dotted with the results of our residents’ hard work.
For our residents, gardening is more than just planting. It encourages gentle movement, social interaction, reminiscence and connection with nature. Our team were thrilled when a resident shared, “It brought back memories of my old garden. I never thought I’d be planting again, but here I am!”
The benefits go beyond the activity itself. The hanging baskets now provide daily enjoyment for residents, families, and visitors alike by adding colour and life to our garden spaces. Events like these reflect our commitment to creating meaningful experiences for our residents every day.
Employee of the Month
We’re also proud to announce that Sarah Lewens has been named Employee of the Month for May. Sarah’s warmth, patience and dedication shine through in all she does, and her contribution to daily life at Harrier Grange does not go unnoticed.
Resident Spotlight: Mary Peel-Boyd
This month, we’re delighted to shine a light on Mary Peel-Boyd, whose remarkable life journey reflects creativity, courage, and a deep love of storytelling.
In the mid-1960s while living in New Zealand, Mary shared her interest in writing with a close friend who worked at the Auckland Herald. That conversation led to her first opportunity to write for the newspaper by contributing engaging leisure features that resonated with readers of all ages. As Mary began to write more regularly, she also pursued exams in journalism and quickly discovered a natural flair for reporting.
Mary’s work was warmly received by the Herald’s readership, covering everything from local stories to personal reflections. Her writing was known for its vivid detail and thoughtful tone, helping people see the beauty in everyday life.
In 1968, Mary’s family relocated to Thailand. Rather than bringing her writing to a halt, this change opened up a new chapter. The Herald invited her to write a column from abroad and capture the unique experiences of a Western family adapting to life in Southeast Asia. Mary wrote about the monsoon rains, the intense tropical heat and the contrasts between different walks of life in the city. She described the markets and the lively art of bartering, the narrow klongs (canals), and the breathtaking architecture of local wats and temples.
When the family returned to England in 1971, Mary stepped back from newspaper reporting, but her love of writing never left her. Over the years, she continued contributing thoughtful pieces to women’s magazines, always with the same sense of warmth and curiosity.
Beyond the written word, Mary has always had a fondness for animals, especially dogs. While she’ll tolerate a cat or two, it’s the loyalty and character of dogs that truly capture her heart. Her stories, memories and sense of humour bring a real joy to life here at Harrier Grange, and we’re proud to call her part of our community.
Come and Discover Harrier Grange For Yourself
Life at Harrier Grange is shaped by meaningful moments, supportive care, and the warmth of shared experiences. Book a tour today to discover our luxury care home and learn more about daily life.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to host our annual Summer Fete on Saturday, 5th July 2025. This much-loved event will bring together residents, families, and the local community for a day of fun, laughter, and celebration. With traditional games, stalls, live music, and plenty of refreshments, it promises to be a lovely day for all. We would love to see you there!
