In November, our Love Life Café welcomed two very special guests – Bob and Pauline Tate, neighbours of our Admin Manager, Christina – as Barton Lodge came together to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War. Bob kindly created a stunning wartime display for the home, filled with thoughtful details that sparked memories, conversations and admiration from residents and staff alike.
As a token of appreciation for his time and creativity, our residents prepared a hamper for Bob and his wife, Pauline. The pair were absolutely delighted, and the moment was made even more touching when Pauline stood and read one of Bob’s poems aloud to the group.
Bob began writing poetry in 2009 and has since published his own collection, Story Poems from the Great War. His connection to wartime history runs deep; his father, William Tate, fought and survived WWI, serving in Dadazeele near Passchendaele, Belgium. Pauline also has strong family ties to the Great War, with both of her grandfathers’ serving, including her Grandad Albert Dunwell, who was awarded a military medal. Bob and Pauline themselves are ex-forces, having met while serving in Germany – Bob in artillery and Pauline as an army nurse. Their shared stories added a meaningful personal layer to the occasion.
One of our residents, Doreen, was especially moved by the display. Our Manager, Amanda, captured a photo of it and had it framed for her – a gift that meant the world to Doreen. When Christina shared this with Bob, he insisted on creating something bespoke just for her. Shortly after, Bob and Pauline returned to Barton Lodge to present Doreen with her very own display. There were emotional smiles all around, and Doreen expressed how touched she was by their kindness. Her beautiful gift now sits with pride in her room, a daily reminder of a memorable afternoon filled with history, friendship and heartfelt gratitude.
