Residents at Jubilee Court care home, part of the Runwood Homes group, enjoyed a meaningful and engaging afternoon on Wednesday 18th February 2026 during their regular Veg Pledge Club activity, where peeling potatoes led to heartfelt storytelling and shared memories.
Seven residents took part in the session, working together to prepare vegetables while chatting about times gone by. During the activity, resident Tony shared fascinating stories about his time serving as a chef in the army.
Deborah, Lifestyle Coordinator, explained how the conversation began:
“I noticed how fast Tony was peeling his potatoes and asked if he was the main cook at home. That’s when he told me he had been a chef while serving in the army.”
Tony described his varied responsibilities beyond cooking, including preparing and serving meals for troops and the sergeant, managing kitchen operations and maintaining food supplies. He explained that the role was both challenging and rewarding, requiring strong teamwork and great attention to detail.
He also spoke fondly about growing his own vegetables, his lifelong involvement in catering, and his love of his horse and cart, which he shared was once a common mode of transport for the upper class.
The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, with residents listening closely, asking questions and joining in the conversation. A standout moment was Tony’s big smile as he proudly shared stories from his past, reflecting on his achievements and experiences.
Activities such as the Veg Pledge Club play an important role at Jubilee Court Care Home, encouraging residents to connect, reminisce and celebrate the rich life experiences within their community.
