Navy veteran returns to helm in 'lifelong wish'

Roger Barnham recently got behind the wheel of a boat

A Royal Navy veteran has fulfilled a "lifelong wish" behind the wheel of a boat at sea.

Staff at Wimborne Care Home in Hayling Island organised the trip for resident Roger Barham, who previously spent 20 years in the Navy.

The 83-year-old said his recent day on the water had "brought back so many memories" of his time at sea.

It comes as the care home was recently awarded veteran-friendly status, which recognises the support it provides to members of the armed forces community.

Mr Barnham spent 20 years in the Royal Navy

"I never thought I'd get the chance to steer a boat again – it was wonderful," Roger said of his day at the helm.

Wimborne said it had organised Roger's "unforgettable day out" to help him "fulfil a lifelong wish".

Manager Corrine Holland said: "We are always looking for ways to make our residents' wishes come true and to celebrate their life stories."

"Roger has shared so many tales from his Navy days, and it was a real honour to help him relive that part of his life. The smile on his face said it all."

Wimborne Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare - one of the UK's largest care providers - and currently has 46 residents.

Earlier this summer, the south coast home was recognised as veteran friendly through a scheme supported by the Royal British Legion.

The Veteran Friendly Framework was launched in October 2023, and aims to tackle loneliness and isolation for more than 25,000 veterans living in care homes across England.