Thrill seeking residents from a Hanover Housing Association development in Barnard Castle, County Durham, have been ticking things off their bucket list with an adrenaline-fuelled experience aboard a helicopter in the skies above the North East.
The unforgettable flying treat was another event organised by Julie Fawcett, their estate manager, who in the last few years has created a vibrant retirement housing environment boasting a host of social activities for residents that includes the breeding of chickens, hosting visits from exotic animals and mystery tours on a 1959 vintage double decker bus.
Five residents from the estate, including 99-year-old Gladys Sparks boarded a Guimbal Cabri G2 chopper as they each took in iconic landmarks such as the Angel of the North, the Cheviot Hills and Souter Lighthouse as part their scenic adventure.
Speaking about her exhilarating flight, Gladys said: ‘It’s been well over forty years since I’ve seen a helicopter up close. The last time was when I visited my brother who worked at Fairey Aviation in Hayes – he was a qualified pilot and flew helicopters during the Second World War.
‘I had never been in one though and it is something that I have always dreamed of doing, so I can tick that off my list now!’
Julie Fawcett said: ‘Whilst some would say we live in the sticks, I am proud to say that we have a fun loving and adventurous group of residents who are always seeking to try and maintain their health and wellbeing whilst trying out new activities. It’s wonderful to be able to help change perceptions of what the older generation can get up to – these are certainly residents who like living life to the max.’
While they’re unsure what they are planning to do next, following the helicopter flight the residents are determined it will involve yet another adrenaline fix.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Read MoreACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
