Helen gives up her car to enjoy a more active lifestyle at Dovehouse Lodge

Helen Bowen is pleased to have given up the responsibility of driving a car since her move to Churchill’s Dovehouse Lodge in Hitchin. Living in the heart of town means she can walk to the shops every day, which keeps her fit and active, so she doesn’t miss driving at all.

“Giving up my car was a great relief,” she explains. “I was losing my confidence in driving and now I live here I can easily walk to Hitchin town centre. I can walk to Waitrose for my groceries, or take buses or the train if I want to go further afield.”

She adds: “I previously lived in a small house in a village in Hertfordshire, but was encouraged to move to Hitchin to be near my family. They had researched the local retirement living options and Churchill came top!

“I’m enjoying life in my smart new one bedroom apartment. It has a small balcony overlooking the gardens, the kitchen and bathroom facilities are well organised, the bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe and there is a small store room off the corridor. The buildings and grounds are well maintained and provide a very pleasant atmosphere.”

Since her move Helen has met many new friends and enjoys their company. She says: “We have regular coffee mornings in the Owners’ Lounge where you can meet other Owners, and other activities are held there including craft afternoons, chair yoga and games evenings. One of the Owners also organises a film evening which is great fun.”