Astronomy enthusiast Lin recently moved to a brand new apartment at Churchill’s Caxton Lodge development in Tenterden, and she is thoroughly enjoying her new outlook on life.
Here is what Lin has to say about her move: “I had previously been living in London since 1972. It’s a vibrant, exciting and cosmopolitan city and I truly loved my 52 years there, where I had a career in teaching for over 50 years, but the downside of living in a light-polluted area such as London was, of course, lack of dark skies!
“I’ve always had a passion for astronomy. For nine years I was the Chairperson of Flamsteed Astronomy Society, based at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich (ROG), which has 500 members representing the full range of interests and experience in astronomy. It was a privilege to be able to hold our meetings on the site of such astronomical significance and to have access to ROG professional staff and other eminent guest speakers.
“When it came to retiring, I thought hard about finding the right place to live. Over the years I have had some health challenges and wanted somewhere with a good community and easy living.
“I had been coming to the Tenterden area for many years to visit close friends. As well as being the ‘Jewel of the Weald’ the area is known for its incredible dark skies, which was a big attraction. Sure enough it was here in October that I witnessed my first Aurora Borealis in Southern England! What a thrill!
“I initially considered buying a cottage, but after much thought I felt it was wise to choose somewhere that was low maintenance and also which had a great community, so I decided on Caxton Lodge. It is a beautiful new building with close proximity to the High Street. I can walk into the town easily and visit the amazing array of shops, eateries and leisure facilities. It is a great location.
“We have a fantastic community at Caxton Lodge and I’ve already made some good friends here. We’ve been off exploring the town together and on a Saturday evening we get together to watch Strictly Come Dancing over a glass of wine. The staff too have been supportive in helping us all to settle in. We are like one big family really.
“We are already planning for Christmas, with meals out and other festive occasions planned too. I’m looking forward to more adventures and thrills with my new life here, Caxton Lodge has ticked all the boxes for me.