Tribute to staff member at Gainsborough older people's living scheme included in new outdoor area

The work has been carried out at Phoenix Court, which is owned and managed by Longhurst Group and is made up of 37 bungalows for the over-55s who want to live independently.

The improvement works have been carried out on the outside areas, including the removal of ivy, bushes and stoned areas.

Fresh turf has been laid, new planting has been done and yellow rose bushes have been planted in memory of a colleague, who worked as a floating scheme manager, who passed away last October.

Sarah Smith, Phoenix Court scheme manager, said: “This work is phase one of improvements in the pipeline for Phoenix Court and I’m delighted with how things have turned out.

“The scheme looks fresher and cleaner and the residents have all said how happy they are that this work has been done for them. We still need to sand down the benches and paint them, and this will also further enhance the outdoor areas for our residents.

“I’d like to thank Tim Downes, our Estates contracts manager and his team for carrying out this work, including creating the areas where yellow rose bushes have been planted.

“It’s wonderful to have areas where we can remember lost loved ones, especially our highly valued and respected colleague and friend.

“Everyone at Phoenix Court is delighted with the works and we’re looking forward to making the most of the new look outside spaces as coronavirus restrictions are lifted and the weather improves.”

Phase two of the work will see more shrub beds removed and grass laid in its place, with spring bulbs and some small ornamental trees.

Tim Downes, Longhurst Group's Estates contracts manager, said: "The shrubs around Phoenix Court had become overgrown and were hard to maintain as they were encroaching onto footpaths around the scheme, making them slippery. We're delighted to have created a more open aspect that looks more inviting. I hope the work of the team will make a massive difference to the people who live at Phoenix Court and I'm looking forward to seeing everything in full bloom.”