Lockdown Hasn't Stood in the Way of One Retiree in Clayton-Le-Woods Making Her Move
When Anne Ash’s daughter Kathryn unexpectedly got stuck in traffic on the motorway leaving her stuck in her car until 4am after driving up to see her one day, she knew it was time to move closer to her family.
For Anne, 87, from Clayton-le-Woods, leaving the three bedroom family home in Greater Manchester where she’d lived for 47 years was a big decision. Fortunately, McCarthy Stone offered the option to rent and Anne spotted an apartment close to her daughter in Chorley, at Haworth Court in Clayton-le-Woods, which came at the perfect time. It gave her the freedom to try a new lifestyle without having to sell her existing home just yet.
Ann explains: “I loved my family home, but the upkeep, particularly the garden, was beginning to become too much for me. My daughters and granddaughter were also having to spend increasing amounts of time travelling to see me, and I was thinking how wonderful it would be if I could live closer to them and enjoy more family time in my retirement.
“My granddaughter noticed Haworth Court being built and made an appointment for us to take a look. As soon as I saw it, I thought, ‘wow I could really live here’. It’s just round the corner from them and there are lots of shops right on the doorstep.
“I was still apprehensive about committing to such a big move though, as I had a lot of memories in my old home. When I found out about McCarthy Stone’s rental option, it offered the perfect solution asit meant I could try out a new lifestyle and if it wasn’t quite right, I could move back.
“We rented out my existing home in just five days. It feels very reassuring to know that one day my daughter can potentially use the home as a source of income for herself too and not selling meant I didn’t have to worry about the hassle of a property chain.”
Ann’s daughter, Kathryn, adds: “My aunty has lived in a McCarthy Stone property for over 20 years and has always been really happy there, so when mum started talking about moving closer to us, we thought it wouldn’t hurt to take a look. Although it was a big decision for all of us, it’s definitely been the right one. The apartment is really well designed, easier for her to manage and she certainly feels more secure. She’s also able to have a lot more interaction with people, not to mention, we get to see her a lot more! We’re all more than happy with how it’s worked out.”
Although lockdown meant Ann couldn’t move in as quickly as she’d have liked, she’s now settled into her new home.
Ann continues: “All of the staff have been so helpful and really made sure I have everything I need. I’ve been keeping busy doing lots of puzzles and knitting. All the residents are now managing to get together in the garden a little bit and everyone is really lovely. I can’t wait until we’re able to start socialising more. I know there are lots of social events in the pipeline for when we finally get the go ahead!
“In the meantime, I am having a fantastic time showing off my new home to my two great granddaughters – they have turned my wardrobe into their playhouse and enjoy sitting with me on the balcony. I have no regrets whatsoever and I don’t miss my old home at all. In fact, my old neighbors keep asking when I’m coming back, and I say the same thing every time – never, I’m having too much fun!”
