Residents at Holy Cross Priory retirement village have come up with a unique idea to engage with the local community. On 9th and 10th November, an exhibition will take place at the Priory to showcase the lives, careers and interests of those living there.
Over 20 residents will display details about their working lives, their interests and key achievements including art, rug work, photography, wood carving, knitting and embroidery. Alongside this there will also be demonstrations of crafting, carving, spinning, painting, and quilling, amongst other things.
Said Andy Hall, Site Coordinator at Holy Cross Priory, “We were delighted when a group of residents approached us about the idea. Not only is it a great way for everyone who lives here to get to know each other better, but a fantastic opportunity for the local community to find out about the lives of their neighbours and the history of this amazing building and grounds.
“Our residents come from all walks of life, some of them retired distinguished public figures, and many of them have interesting tales to tell. You may be surprised to learn that one of our residents is a retired actor!”
This is a wonderful opportunity to find out more about older people in the community, to engage with them and take an interest in their lives. Furthermore, if you have ever passed Holy Cross and wondered what the interior of this stunning neo-Gothic mansion was like, it’s a rare chance to explore some of the grand communal rooms and to take a gentle stroll around the grounds. Of particular significance are the ornate carved fireplaces and staircase, stained-glass windows and restored gardens. During the second world war, records show that Sir Winston Churchill made some of the D-Day plans at the house together with General Eisenhower and Lord Montgomery.
The exhibition, together with a short film about the family who resided on site in the 1900s will be on show over the weekend and is open to all between 10am and 4pm. There is no charge for entry, but refreshments will be on sale with all proceeds going to the Friends of Holy Cross Priory.
The onsite restaurant – Stonehill Dining Room – will be open for lunch on both exhibition days, but booking is advisable on 01435 865691.
For further information please contact Ruth Maddison on 01825 891094 or email: [email protected]
About Holy Cross Priory
Holy Cross Care Home is owned by the Grace and Compassion Benedictines. The Benedictine Sisters have a very active and important role in the care home, ensuring all who come here, including guests, are welcomed as part of the family. The charisma of the Benedictine Order is care and compassion and the ethos of the design of the care home is care, security, peace and tranquillity.