Setting his heart on fire! Wish comes true for Hailsham care home resident and former fireman

A Hailsham care home resident, and former fireman, was delighted when he received a very special visit from the local fire department.  

76-year-old John Revington from Care UK’s Bowes House, on Battle Road, couldn’t believe his eyes when the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service crew dropped by to say a special hello.  

John joined the Manchester Fire Service at the age of 20 and worked for 25 years, in roles including a fire fighter, before progressing to divisional office. Unfortunately, John had an injury on a job, and as a result he retired early from the service.

However, John’s passion for fire safety never stopped. After he retired from the Fire Service, John then moved into a fire safety training for businesses. He travelled all over the world delivering training scenarios to companies, councils and emergency services. 

The lifestyle team the Bowes House decided to organise the special surprise after hearing about John’s fond memories of his time working for the fire service, which he often shares with residents and team members.

John was greeted by three firemen and women, who showed him around the truck, let him try on their kit, and even sound the sirens, as well as chatting about how things have changed since John worked for them.

John said: “It was wonderful. I really enjoyed the surprise. They spent time talking with me and reminiscing about my time in the service.

“My fondest memories from the service was helping to train the new recruits and providing such an important service to the general public.”

Karen Milligan, Senior Customer Manager at Bowes House, added:  “We had an amazing day with the East Sussex Fire and Rescue team.

“Here at Bowes House, we strive to support residents to lead fulfilling lives, and are always looking to find new and exciting ways to help them re-connect with their hobbies and interests. To see the smile on John’s face when he saw the fire engine was incredible, and he had a wonderful time sharing his memories with the crew and other residents.

“It was certainly a day to remember – and one we’ll be talking about for many months to come!” 

Bowes House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has it very own café, cinema and hair salon, and there is plenty of space, both indoors and out, for relaxation and recreation. The home has a comprehensive activity programme, offering a mix of themed events and group activities.

To find out more about Bowes House, contact Customer Relations Manager at Bowes House, Karen Milligan, on karen.milligan@careuk.com, call 01323 888 611 or visit careuk.com/bowes-house.