Local people met one of Britain’s favourite TV personalities, Dame Esther Rantzen DBE, when she attended the Official Opening of Churchill Living’s Harington Lodge in Chichester on Wednesday 3rd November. The broadcasting legend visited the retirement development to officially cut the ribbon, and spent time with new apartment Owners and guests sharing anecdotes and stories from her impressive career.
Dame Esther Rantzen DBE is Churchill’s Brand Ambassador and has worked tirelessly to champion the needs of older people. In 2012 she founded a new charity called The Silver Line with the aim of combating loneliness in isolated older people. She has also worked closely with Churchill Living to set up The Churchill Awards, the annual celebration of the achievements of the over 65s.
Her philosophy, which exactly reflects Churchill Living’s own, is that the retirement years should be anticipated in a positive way. Older people should be supported so that they can find new friendships and enjoy life to the full.
“Growing older is something to be celebrated,” she declares. “Older people have so much to offer. Many people of retirement age who are lucky enough to be able to stay as active and as involved as possible, and can spend time volunteering, trying new hobbies or socialising with friends and family, find it gives them a great sense of achievement and purpose.”
She adds: “Since becoming a Churchill Ambassador I’ve enjoyed working with them to help champion the needs of older people, attending events and talking first-hand to owners who have moved into new Churchill apartments.”
Harington Lodge is a collection of one and two bedroom privately owned retirement apartments and shared facilities, designed exclusively for the over 60s. Offering quality retirement accommodation and safe and independent living, the development is in a convenient location close to local shops and amenities.