80-year-old with dementia enjoys fishing trip in Hampshire

Terry Woodnott, a lifelong fishing fanatic who lives at Care UK’s Dashwood Manor in Basingstoke, spent a sunny afternoon at Billhook Lake with the support of care staff who knew how much the sport meant to him.

Mr Woodnott has been hooked on fishing since childhood and even taught his favourite hobby to his daughter, Claire.

But after being diagnosed with dementia, his visits to the lake became less frequent.

Staff at Dashwood Manor arranged the trip as part of the home's Wishing Tree scheme, which encourages residents to share ideas for meaningful outings and experiences.

Terry with a fish he caught when he was aged 50 (Image: Dashwood Manor)

Mr Woodnott said: "It is nice to be out by the lake, just watching and looking at the water."

During the visit, he caught a large bream and spent time reminiscing with the care team about his lifelong love of fishing.

Francine Veramu, home manager at Dashwood Manor, said: "Our trip was a picture-perfect day by the water and it was great to see Terry in his element.

"There’s no doubt we’ll still be talking about it for weeks to come.

"Here at Dashwood Manor, we always encourage residents to continue their favourite pastimes and share memories that hold special importance to them.

"It’s moments like this that show just how crucial it is to keep their passions alive."

Terry Woodnott with the large bream he caught (Image: Dashwood Manor)

The trip was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which supports residents in revisiting old hobbies or trying new experiences.

Other wishes granted through the scheme have ranged from skiing trips to simple treats like a fish and chip supper.

Dashwood Manor offers residential, nursing, dementia, and respite care, with facilities including a cinema, bar, hair and beauty salon, and gardens.