The gardens at Dreton Lodge in Drayton are in full bloom thanks to a £200 donation from Churchill Living to help residents buy flowers to transform the development’s outdoor space.
Maretta Nelson, and neighbours Sheila and John Feltham, are proof that swapping a house for an apartment doesn’t mean hanging up their gardening gloves. The trio decided to keep their passion for gardening going at Dreton Lodge, putting their green fingers to good use tending to the communal garden area. Everyone is welcome to join in.
The contribution from Churchill Living to purchase plants has enabled the group to create a series of beautifully planted pots and planters, filled with petunias, cornflowers, pansies and much more. Ensuring their new blooms get the tender loving care they need, they’ve worked out a watering rota between them, making sure the effort is shared.
Spending time outdoors has become a highlight for the group, offering a welcome boost to their wellbeing and continuing their active retirements. For Maretta, Sheila and John, it's a chance to carry on doing something they've always loved - now with company and a lower maintenance space.
Maretta Nelson, Resident at Dreton Lodge, comments: “We find such enjoyment in gardening - flowers really lift my spirits. It's been wonderful to bring some colour to the garden here at Dreton Lodge, with Sheila and John, and to know that between us we're keeping them looking their best. We all love gardening, and it means so much to be able to keep that passion going.”
Jo Ridehalgh, divisional marketing lead for Churchill Living, comments: “The communal gardens at Dreton Lodge are perfect for our residents, who want to be able to continue lifelong hobbies like gardening, but with less stress and effort of maintaining their own large outdoor areas. We’re delighted that Churchill’s £200 contribution enabled our very own green-fingered trio to buy what they needed to start making this space their own.”
Dreton Lodge comprises of 54 one- and two-bedroom apartments, all of which are self-contained, boasting colour co-ordinated kitchens and beautifully landscaped gardens. Designed specifically for the over 60s, all apartments come equipped with a 24-hour Careline support system, and secure camera entry system for extra peace of mind. Residents also have access to the communal lounge, complete with Wi-Fi and a coffee bar, which hosts weekly events organised by the Lodge Manager.
Nestled in the desirable Portsmouth suburb of Drayton, the Lodge is surrounded by a variety of amenities just a short distance from the development. With public transport links available nearby, residents have everything they need on their doorstep, including a supermarket and a selection of independent retailers and cafés.
Drayton is a hive of activity, so those wanting to stay active in their retirement can enjoy a round at nearby Portsmouth Golf Course, explore the historic waterfront city of Portsmouth - home to the Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower - or browse the shops, restaurants and cinema at Gunwharf Quays.