John keeps his collection of maritime history in his new Hook home
After heading off to sea as a deck officer in 1953, at just 16 years of age, and then spending his career involved in maritime adventures, including raising the Mary Rose, John has become one of the first homeowners to move into Roslin Place, a retirement living community for the over 60s in Hook, Hampshire.
Despite downsizing from his family home of 48 years - just down the road from Roslin Place, John was keen to keep all his mementos from his time aboard, including his travel log where he shares notes of his travels to Nigeria, New Guinea and more as an insurance surveyor and later as Managing Director of a shipping company.
John says: “It was fascinating to be a part of the lifting of the Mary Rose and to be a part of local history. I have been fortunate to be involved in many maritime operations, including towing the biggest man-made structure in the North Sea that is still standing today. This structure also resulted in an entry in the Guinness book of records - It brings me a huge sense of pride to be able to look back on these projects and know that I was a part of it all.”
John’s Hook retirement home has expanded his horizons
John’s new home allows him to enjoy an active retirement - including giving him more time to traverse the oceans. He recently treated his family and friends to a private cruise on their very own yacht where they cruised the Croatian coast.
“Roslin Place has opened a lot of doors for me and has given me more time to focus on the things that I enjoy. Apart from continuing to travel with my family, since moving into the apartment, I have converted the second bedroom into an office where I am slowly but surely writing my own autobiography.
“There is also a great sense of community here. Moving to this development has allowed me to meet more people in the village and maintain and make new friendships. A few of the homeowners have a weekly ritual to visit one of the local pubs in the area to have a meal out, it’s a ritual we plan on keeping.”
Join a sociable McCarthy Stone community near you
Whether you choose an independent living apartment with Retirement Living or opt for the added services of Retirement Living PLUS, our retirement communities offer an easier lifestyle, combining the privacy of your own home with amenities and new friendships on the doorstep.
Learn more our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
