Sheltered housing 'oasis' at Muir celebrates its 40th anniversary
RESIDENTS at a Muir sheltered housing ‘oasis’ have celebrated its 40th anniversary after it was built on the site of a former army barracks.
The residents of Fusilier Court in Bury rolled back the years to raise a toast four decades since the scheme first opened its doors, with traditional Ruby being swapped for a fantastic array of red, white and blue decorations.
They all dressed in their Sunday best, surrounded by songs of yesteryear, photographs of times gone by, and enjoyed some live singing as they were joined by friends and family on the day.
Sian Kilcoyne, Muir Group Housing Association’s Scheme Manager at Fusilier Court, developed on the site of the Lancashire Fusiliers former Wellington Barracks at Chislehurst Close said: “It is lovely to see all the residents celebrating.
“They all worked really hard to make the event happen and it is brilliant to see everyone coming together and having a good time.
“I love working here and feel privileged to do so.”
Seventy-seven-year-old event organiser, Wendy Bogue, was one of those joining in the celebrations.
A former manager of the scheme for seven years, she loved life at Fusilier Court so much she decided to become a resident herself when she retired.
“There are so many wonderful, happy memories here,” Wendy said.
“It is great to see everyone enjoying themselves.
“Fusilier Court is a good asset to the community and I have lived here since retiring because it’s such a lovely place to be.”
The sheltered housing scheme was on the radar of one former RAF man, Mike Jones, when he opted to move into sheltered accommodation with Muir.
The 60-year-old worked for the RAF as a civilian, helping develop new radar systems to recognise low flying aircraft.
Mike has been living at the scheme for the past 18 months and said: “Fusilier Court is a little oasis.
“It is harmony having people together to celebrate like this.
“The wellbeing of people at the scheme is due to them living here.
“It’s friendly and enjoyable – a lovely community, and I think it is an ideal model for a sheltered housing scheme.”
Fusilier Court is a sheltered housing scheme for elderly residents, single or couples, 60 years or over (or 55 years and over if in receipt of disability living allowance).
The scheme aims to promote independent living, good health and provide support to vulnerable residents to encourage them to be socially included and provide them with a safe environment and home for life.
To find out more, visit www.muir.org.uk/fusilier-court
