AN 89-year-old care home resident took a step back in time as he relived memories so important to him while at Salisbury Cathedral.

John Clipson who lives at Salisbury Manor on Shapland Close had his dreams made a reality when the care team determined to take him to the cathedral.

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John was a proud member of the Guild of Cathedral Stewards and performed his role at the cathedral for more than 15 years mostly on Sundays. He also covered special services which included funerals, and Christmas as well as various other festivals.

He said: “Welcoming the visitors was often an interesting part of the job – I helped at Sir Edward Heath’s funeral during which I escorted Margaret Thatcher and others to their seats.”

When Salisbury Manor became a Care UK care home in January 2022, a Wishing Tree was installed – an initiative launched by Care UK so that residents can suggest ideas for new hobbies, or places they would like to visit and activities. The aim was to encourage residents to live fulfilling lives from flying a plane to having a fish and chip supper.

No wish is considered too big or too small.

During the visit, John took team members and other residents on a tour around the cathedral and enjoyed reminiscing about his career there. The residents also had a chance to show off their photography skills to capture photos of the cathedral. 

The photos have since been framed and are on display in the home’s café for visitors to enjoy.

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General manager at Salisbury Manor, Skye Williams, said: “John often talks about when he used to work as a cathedral steward and how much he loved his job, and so, we were thrilled to help take him back to the cathedral to relive happy memories. 

“Here at Salisbury Manor, we are always looking for ways we can encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives and so we were delighted to help make John’s wish come true. It was wonderful to see his face light up as he entered the cathedral he once worked at and to hear so many stories from his younger years working as a cathedral steward.  

“I’d like to thank Salisbury Cathedral for hosting us and John for sharing his fascinating memories.”