23 April 2025
At Abbey Health Care, we are dedicated to creating moments that bring joy and connection to our residents. Our recent Community Valuation Day at Aarandale Manor was one such occasion, featuring none other than antiques expert Eric Knowles from the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow.
For one resident in particular, 95-year-old Sandy Morrison, the event was truly unforgettable. Sandy, who moved into Aarandale Manor in Mill Hill in 2023, has been an avid fan of Antiques Roadshow for nearly 40 years. In recent years, holding conversations has become more difficult for him, but when he saw Eric Knowles walk through the door, his excitement was undeniable.
His daughter, Catherine Lomer, shared how much the moment meant to their family:
“Dad must have watched the Antiques Roadshow for close to 40 years. It was wonderful to hear how chatty Dad was with Eric, as conversations can be quite challenging for him.”
Seeing Sandy so engaged, animated, and full of life was a heartwarming moment for everyone at Aarandale Manor. Care home manager Kirsty Harris reflected on the special encounter:
“It was wonderful to see Sandy’s eyes light up when he saw Eric Knowles. He was really engaged in conversation, and you could see how much it meant to him.”
The event was attended by Barnet’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Danny Rich, along with 45 VIP guests, residents, families, and community members. Attendees brought in a variety of antique items for appraisal, making for a day filled with curiosity, history, and storytelling. One of the fascinating pieces examined was an 1860s sewing machine, brought in by staff from All Aboard charity shops. Eric valued the piece at “in the region of £100.”
Throughout the day, residents and guests enjoyed discussing their personal heirlooms and treasured possessions, each with its own unique story. The event not only showcased valuable antiques but also highlighted the importance of shared experiences, nostalgia, and the joy of lifelong passions.
At Abbey Health Care, we understand that true wellbeing extends beyond physical care—it’s about emotional connection, mental stimulation, and moments of pure joy. Events like these help residents reminisce, engage with their interests, and feel part of a wider community.
For Sandy, meeting his TV hero sparked a level of conversation and enthusiasm that hadn’t been seen in a long time. It was a powerful reminder of how personal passions and memories can reignite engagement and happiness, even in later life.
A huge thank you to Eric Knowles for making this day so special, and to everyone who attended and supported the event. The smiles, conversations, and excitement shared will be cherished by our residents, their families, and all of us at Aarandale Manor for a long time to come.