Although she was very happy in her home, Pauline Clapham decided it was time to move to somewhere she felt was manageable, safe and nearer her family. But she had one very important consideration – Molly the Westie.
Mrs Clapham said: “My husband died 15 years ago and then I lost our pet dog too and I was alone in this big empty house and I hated it. So I moved to a smaller more manageable home, which at the time was quite near my son and daughter-in-law. I had lovely neighbours. And I got another dog – Molly – and we were very happy.
“My son ended up moving a little further away to Tring and it was fine at first, but time rolls on and I started thinking more about moving to somewhere more suitable. I didn’t want to wait until I was really old. I wanted to move while I felt fit and healthy so I could enjoy it and make the most of it.
“The problem is, most apartment developments won’t allow pets, but I knew Churchill did. So when I found out Churchill were building in Berkhamsted I rang them straight away.”
Mrs Clapham, who is 87, moved into a one bedroom ground floor apartment in July last year and has been delighted with her decision.
She said: “It’s lovely here. I love what I’ve chosen and I bought it off plan without seeing it. I’d have been pleased with it whether I had Molly or not. I have doors that open right onto the garden and it’s a really nice position.
“Molly loves it here too. I’ve been exploring the dog walking routes round and about. I don’t worry about the weather – I’ve all the right coats. We tog up and go out twice a day. On our way out of the Lodge we walk through the Owners Lounge together and she gets a lot of fuss.
“I like living at Sheldon Lodge. My husband Tim and I used to visit Berkhamsted on days out so I know it quite well and feel comfortable here. There’s a good high street with lots of lovely places to eat. I have made some good friends since I’ve moved here too and Anne Marie, the Lodge Manager, has organised lots of events. I see my family more regularly too. Sometimes I can’t fit everything in! It’s lovely to be busy though.”
Sheldon Lodge is a collection of 48 one and two bedroom privately owned retirement apartments and shared facilities, designed exclusively for the over 60s. Offering quality retirement accommodation and safe and independent living, the development is in a convenient location close to local shops and amenities.
Apartments have spacious rooms throughout and an ideal combination of design and functionality. The fully fitted, stylish kitchens include a built in fridge and freezer, hob and an oven, which is located at an easy-reach height. All of the properties benefit from illuminated light switches for added convenience. Owners also enjoy ultimate peace of mind from a fitted camera entry system for the highest level of security and a 24 hour emergency call system.
For more information on Sheldon Lodge, please visit the Show Complex, call 01442 330 210 or click here.