New Home After 66 Years For Worksop Woman Who Says, “Community Is Everything”
A lifelong local, who was born and bred in Worksop, has officially opened a new care home alongside Tony Eaton, Chair of Bassetlaw District Council.
Gateford Lodge, a modern 70-bed residential and dementia care home, has welcomed 87-year-old, Sheila Snowden as the first resident to move into the home as it opens its doors to the Worksop community.
Sheila, who has lived in the area for almost a century, worked for the majority of her life in the pharmacy at Boots on the town’s high street, and remained in her family home for more than 66 years before making the move to Gateford Lodge.
A keen walker for many years, Sheila was a member of a local rambling group that met regularly at Kilton Golf Course. While she no longer walks quite as far, she is now looking forward to spending time in Gateford Lodge’s gardens, turning her attention to gardening and enjoying the outdoor space within the home’s grounds.
To mark the official opening, Gateford Lodge hosted a community celebration bringing together local residents, families and social care professionals. Sheila cut the ribbon with Tony Eaton, symbolising both a new beginning for her, the home and the other residents.
Guests enjoyed performances from children at Gateford Park Primary School, alongside singer and performer Holly Coulson, who sang a mix of classic and modern-day music.
Shiela Snowden said, “I was very happy to be chosen to cut the ribbon. It made me feel special to be part of the open day, and I really enjoyed celebrating Gateford Lodge with everyone.”
Luke Curley, home manager at Gateford Lodge, added, “Welcoming Sheila as our first resident is incredibly special. Her deep roots in Worksop perfectly reflect what Gateford Lodge is all about – supporting people to continue living fulfilling lives, surrounded by familiar faces, places and experiences.
“Our goal is to be more than just a care home. We want Gateford Lodge to be a community hub where residents stay connected to the town they love and where local people feel welcome.”
Gateford Lodge is owned and managed by Tanglewood Care Homes.
CEO of Tanglewood Care Homes, Daniel Rowark-Donowa added, “We are looking forward to the residents and staff at Gateford Lodge, becoming an integral part of community life in Worksop with lots of exciting plans in the pipeline.
“As a growing care provider, we work hard to ensure quality of care is at the heart of everything we do and mirrored in every home within our group.”
