Ex-RAF Care Home Residents Flying High After Aviation Museum Visit

Residents of Hook’s Old Raven House care home who spent a career in the aviation industry are flying high after a visit to the Army Flying Museum.

Eight residents at the care home, which is operated by Healthcare Management Solutions, were treated to the trip as part of the home’s colourful schedule of activities, which includes regular trips out to local experiences and entertainment as well as a packed itinerary of in-home happenings. Entertainment and Events Administrator Graham Goddard is committed to providing Old Raven House’s residents with experiences that enrich their lives and bring joy to their days.

The outing was an opportunity for the home’s residents to reconnect with their past and share memories of working in the aviation industry or with the armed forces. The residents included former air traffic controllers, pilots, aviation mechanics, and even one resident, Royston Swatten, who received an MBE for his services to the aviation industry following a career in Aviation design.

The Army Flying Museum tells the story of British Army Flying from the early days of military ballooning to the modern Army Air Corps. Highlights of the collection, housed in a purpose-built hanger, include a Sopwith Pup – an example of a single-seat fighter introduced in 1916 -and a Lynx helicopter which broke the world speed record in 1972, alongside around 40 other aircraft.

Anne Turner, the manager of Old Raven House, reflected on the day’s success, saying: “It was so lovely to see our residents so engaged and hear all of their stories during their visit to the Army Flying Museum.

“Their memories brought the exhibits to life in a way that was truly special. This trip wasn’t just a visit; it was a nostalgic journey for many of our residents, reminding them of the adventures and camaraderie they experienced in their aviation careers. Witnessing our residents reconnect with their personal histories was a truly memorable experience.”