Poole Care Home Resident Hits The Mark With Clay Pigeon Shooting Wish

A Poole care home resident went clay pigeon shooting as part of an initiative to fulfil his special wish.

Tom, who lives at Dorset House care home in Hamworthy, visited Purbeck Shooting School with support from Sam Baker, Activities Lead at Dorset House care home, and his granddaughter, Tilly. Tom has had a life-long passion for clay pigeon shooting, having previously visited Purbeck Shooting School on a weekly basis before needing to give up his gun licence when he was diagnosed with dementia.

Alongside instructor, Trevor, from Purbeck Shooting School, Tom was able to safely use a shotgun to shoot some clays. Afterwards, he enjoyed chatting to members of the shooting school about how he aimed and the techniques he used to follow the clays and be on target. Tom also spoke to one club member about the different guns they own and took a closer look at the ornate details on the guns.

Tom said: “It was absolutely brilliant. One of the best days I have ever had. I hope that I can go back there again. I think with more practice, I will be back to my old aim.”

Trevor Lake, whose worked as instructor at Purbeck Shooting School for 12 years, said: “I think Tom loved it. He only needed a little bit of guidance, but otherwise he got on very well. He managed to hit a few clays and he was very good. I’ve not taught a care home resident before so it was nice to be able to help to fulfil Tom’s wish.”

Tracy Jennings, Home Manager at Dorset House, said: “We are so pleased that we could help Tom to safely have a go at a hobby that he has enjoyed throughout his life. When we contacted Purbeck Shooting School, they were only too happy to help us to make Tom’s wish come true. At Care South, we love enabling our residents to continue enjoying their hobbies and passions. This includes activities that they love but are no longer able to do without some extra support, which is where our fantastic, passionate team can help to make it happen.”