98-year-old war veteran takes first train ride in 77 years for a seaside adventure

Stan has led a life filled with adventure. One major one being his time in the army. Stan worked as a Military Police Officer during WW2 from 1943-1947 and travelled around the world. Since leaving the army and coming home, Stan has not been on a train. That’s 77 years gone by.

Stan expressed to the staff in his Bupa Care Home that he would absolutely love to go on a new adventure. Stan wanted to go on a train and see how much things had changed.

The Activities Team at Bupa, Druid Stoke Care Home, wanted to make that dream come true. Activity Coordinator, Melodie, set about planning with Stan, where he’d like to visit and what he’d like to do. Stan wanted to go to the seaside, eat fish and chips and visit the pier.

This may sound like any other day trip to me and you, but for someone who is 98 and living in a care home, this day trip would bring so much joy, fond memories, and a chance for a new adventure.

One of the first things Stan said when he got on the train was how quiet it was. He was used to steam trains, which made loud clicks and clacks as they ran along the tracks. Stan spent the journey filled with excitement for the day ahead.

He enjoyed looking out the window as the world went by and pointing out all the things he could see. After playing games on the pier, buying rock to bring back for his friends at the home and eating fish and chips on the seaside, whilst fighting off the seagulls with his cane, it was time to go home again.

This was just one resident’s dream, but each resident has one. Druid Stoke Care Home and their Activities Team are on a mission to make as many dreams as possible come true for their residents. So, keep an eye out for more stories of our upcoming adventures.#itsnevertoolate