Newbury Winchcombe Place resident takes surprise spin in classic car

A Newbury care home resident has received a triumphant trip down memory lane.

When the team at Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, in Maple Crescent, learned 86-year-old Patricia Steven’s pride and joy in her younger years was a Triumph Spitfire, they were determined to reunite her with her favourite classic car.

Having owned one of the timeless vehicles for 30 years, Mrs Steven has many fond memories including driving to Spain in her 20s — and was keen to relive the thrill of the ride.

Thanks to a local car enthusiast, the team arranged a special visit for Mrs Steven, who was shocked when a car almost identical to the one she owned appeared in the home’s car park.

Speaking of the experience, Mrs Steven said: “It was amazing to sit in the car and feel the engine.

“When the driver put his foot down, the sensation of just zooming along was fantastic.”

The special visit was part of the home’s wishing tree initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward to reconnect with a past hobby or try something new, from flying on a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper.

“I never thought I’d get the chance to sit in a sports car again,” added Mrs Steven.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who made this happen. It was such a lovely surprise.”

Home manager at Winchcombe Place, Shirley Summerbell, said: “When Patricia shared her wish to have a ride in a sports car, the team were excited to make it happen.

“Patricia is always sharing fond memories of the trips she used to take in her own Spitfire and she had a wonderful time reliving this. She hasn’t stopped smiling since.

“I’d like to extend a big thank you to the team here at Winchcombe Place for making Patricia’s day.

“She’s already planning her next outing.”