Date: January 2007

CONSTANCE MARCHAM, 94, IS THE FIRST TO BUY AN APARTMENT AT RICHMOND NORTHAMPTON RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Constance Marcham, 94, is the first person to buy a new home at Richmond Northampton, a striking retirement village currently being built by Richmond Villages in Bridge Meadow Way, Northampton.

The purpose-built village, which is due to be complete by Autumn 2007, will offer three different levels of accommodation – with properties reflecting a New England style – to suit the varying needs of residents aged 55-plus.  As with all Richmond Villages’ developments, exceptional levels of care will be available, along with a superb range of facilities and a whole host of social activities.

Constance says:  “I wanted an alternative to the stereo-typical care home and Richmond Northampton fits the bill perfectly.  I’ve stayed in a care home in the past, while my family were on holiday, and knew this was not for me on a permanent basis.    I like the idea of still having my own place where I will have room for my things.  I am looking forward to moving into my apartment in October 2007.”

Constance, who has two children, eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren, currently lives in Collingtree Park, not far from the new retirement village.  The serviced apartment she has purchased comprises a sitting room with balcony, galley kitchen, double bedroom and en suite shower/bathroom.  Here, Constance will be able maintain her independence while also benefiting from a five star hotel-style service.  This includes all her food and drinks, cleaning and laundry; even having her mail personally delivered.  The on-site domiciliary care agency ensures that should Constance ever require any care in the future, it is available literally on her doorstep.

A remarkably healthy lady, who still drives her car locally, Constance adds:  “I don’t have any aches and pains, but the stairs in my home are becoming difficult to manage.  I have just reached the stage where I feel ready to be looked after; to be pampered a little.”

Constance’s husband, Bert, was a civil engineer and his job took the couple to South Africa after the war where they lived for 25 years.  However, Bert died three years ago and Constance is finding life in her present home quite lonely.  Constance says:  “It will be good to meet lots of people at Richmond Northampton, where I know there will be plenty going on.”

The village will have impressive facilities, with the emphasis on enjoying life.  Constance can have her meals brought to her apartment or she might decide to go to the restaurant, which will provide first class cuisine.  The restaurant also opens out to a superb auditorium and there is a private dining area available for family occasions.   Other facilities include opulent lounges, a hairdressing salon, a beautician, a craft and hobby room, a library and I.T. room, a café and a shop.  Various clubs will include a supper club, a regular event with a changing programme of entertainment, and a bridge club.

Constance adds:  “I have been playing bridge since I was 24 and will be inviting my bridge four to Richmond Northampton; both to my apartment and to the club events.”  Luxury vehicles and a full-time driver will also be at Constance’s disposal, allowing her to enjoy shopping trips and days out.  The development will be beautifully landscaped, with many areas to sit out in during the warmer months.

In addition to serviced apartments, Richmond Northampton will have independent village apartments, with these coming in a variety of styles and suitable for those who live independently but with the reassurance that should they ever need help in the future, it is available.  The one and two bedroom apartments include a beautifully appointed kitchen, spacious living room, bathrooms with luxury fittings and en suites to the two bedroom apartments; many apartments will have balconies and car owners will have a parking space. 

The village will also have care bedrooms for those requiring 24-hour nursing care, with these located in the heart of the development so residents can have easy access to the facilities and feel part of the community.  These are spacious and homely rooms with elegant furnishings, luxurious carpets and décor and stylish en suite bathrooms.  

Richmond Northampton will also provide respite and convalescent care for those seeking a short stay while family are on holiday, for example, or for those recovering from an illness or operation.

Constance’s daughter, Barbara Kelso, says:  “I am delighted my mother has chosen to live at Richmond Northampton, which will be a wonderful environment for her.  I will also find it very reassuring to know I can take a holiday safe in the knowledge Mum is being well cared for.”

Prices for serviced apartments start at £151,000, and for independent apartments from £225,000.  Care bedrooms are available on a weekly basis.  An additional charge is made for care packages and there is a monthly service charge.  For further information on Richmond Northampton, please telephone: 01604 661483 or visit www.richmond-villages.com

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Ref: RV03/2007

Constance Marcham (right) with her daughter Barbara Kelso (left) is the first purchaser of a serviced apartment at Richmond Northampton retirement village which is due for completion this Autumn.

Information: 01285 658844