‘I want to be as active as I possibly can’

Helping others is important to The Reverend Canon John Moore. It’s what he has done for a lifetime.

The 83-year-old grandfather had a distinguished career. He was made a Canon in Coventry Cathedral and was also awarded a Lambeth Degree, an academic degree conferred by the Archbishop of Canterbury in recognition of service to the church.

Now the former vicar is enjoying being part of the lively community at Austin Heath Retirement Village.

During his career Mr Moore was in charge of one of the Church of England’s mission agencies. In his last role before retirement he travelled extensively throughout Europe supporting congregations.

‘I’ve been very pleased that everything I’ve done I have enjoyed doing. I have been very fortunate,’ he says.

Mr Moore moved to a two bedroom apartment at Austin Heath Retirement Village in 2016. His wife had moved into a specialist care home and he was living alone in a four bedroom house.

 ‘The house felt too big and there was the worry of keeping it up to scratch. I needed to downsize’ he says.

Mr Moore likes the space and light in his apartment at Austin Heath. He also likes the convenience to a bus route and the proximity to where he used to live in Leamington Spa.

‘I like the idea of community,’ he says. ‘There are huge opportunities here for people to help each other.

‘I can help to organise social events. I’d like to be involved here as much as I’m needed and wanted. I want to be as active as I possibly can.’

Activities at Austin Heath include everything from film afternoons and games afternoons to local trips, organised walks and a book group.

In the corner of Mr Moore’s apartment there’s a desk and shelves filled with books. He likes reading and watching football, and enjoys visits from his grandchildren who like coming to Austin Heath. He actively supports the local church.

 ‘I want to go on feeling that I’m being useful and finding fulfilment in my life here’ he says.