Kidlington Care Home Hosts Book Launch for 84-Year-Old Resident Author

There was cause for celebration at Porthaven’s Lincroft Meadow Care Home in Kidlington as residents, families and members of the local community gathered to honour retired historian and fellow resident, Professor Anthony Fletcher (84) and co-author Dr Ruth Larsen, following the publication of their latest book, Mistress: A History of Women and their Country Houses.

Having taken place on Friday, 31st October, the afternoon brought together over fifty attendees, including academics and notable guests such as Lord Wemyss of Stanway House, whose family estate features in the book. Among the guests were residents, family, and friends, as well as one of Anthony Fletcher’s former postgraduate students, who first introduced him to Dr Ruth Larsen and whose connection helped shape the collaboration that led to publication.

Guests enjoyed an afternoon filled with conversation, reflection and celebration, including a 40-minute talk by co-author Dr Ruth Larsen, followed by canapes, refreshments, and to witness both Anthony and Ruth co-signing a copy of the book, which will now be proudly displayed in the home’s library as a lasting reminder of an achievement years in the making.

Anthony Fletcher, who enjoyed an academic career as a historian of Tudor and early modern Britain and is widely known for works such as Tudor Rebellions, began researching for Mistress many years before moving into the home. Since joining the Lincroft Meadow family in 2021, he has been supported by family, former postgraduate students, including Dr Ruth Larsen and the home’s care team to see this long-term project through to publication.
Proving that age is just a number, Anthony Fletcher said: “Finishing Mistress has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. To see it launched here, surrounded by family, friends, Ruth, and everyone at Lincroft Meadow, was something I’ll treasure forever. I’m beyond grateful to Ruth for her support and partnership, and to the care team who’ve encouraged me every step of the way. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the celebrations, it’s been such a remarkable chapter in my life.”

Elaine Ratcliffe, home manager at Lincroft Meadow, said: “Watching Anthony speak about his work, surrounded by people who respect and admire him, was something we’ll never forget at Lincroft Meadow. It reminded everyone in the room that independence and purpose don’t stop when you move into care, in fact, they can flourish with the right support. Our whole team felt so proud to play even the smallest part in helping Anthony finish what he started, and to see his achievement recognised by so many people who care about him.

“For the team and residents alike, the launch marked a proud and memorable occasion for our home, a powerful reminder that ambition and achievement have no age limit. We’re honoured to celebrate this milestone with Anthony and Ruth, and so grateful to everyone who joined us to share such a special day.”

Dr Ruth Larsen, author and Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Derby, added: “I have long admired Professor Fletcher’s work, which has been central to my own research, and so being part of this project has been a delight and an honour. It really could not have been a lovelier occasion, and I am so grateful for the efforts of the Lincroft Meadow team for arranging this celebration for Anthony and me.”