Anchor residents join forces over a shared love of chess

Two groups of residents at Anchor have come together to share their passion for chess.

Residents at Hanover Court, a housing location in Didcot, Oxfordshire, are currently developing their in-house activities programme and were keen to introduce chess as part of their growing range of social activities. However, there was one important piece missing - the chess set itself.

When residents at The Dials development in Hinckley, Leicestershire heard about their situation, they were eager to help. The group generously donated a unique handcrafted chess set, created by Phil Whitmore, Chairperson of the Activities Group at The Dials.

The beautifully detailed chess board and figures were presented to Paul Foster, Activities Coordinator at Hanover Court, who was delighted to receive the gift. The set was soon put to good use, bringing residents together to enjoy friendly competition, conversation and strategic thinking.

The donation highlights the strong sense of community that exists across Anchor locations, with residents supporting one another and sharing resources to help enrich life in their communities.

The gesture has already proved a success, with the chess board becoming a popular addition to activities at Hanover Court and helping to create new opportunities for residents to connect and engage with one another.

Phil Whitmore, Chairperson of the Activities Group at The Dials, said:

We were pleased to be able to support Hanover Court with their activities programme. Chess is a wonderful way to bring people together, and it’s great to know the set will be enjoyed by fellow residents.

Paul Foster, Activities Coordinator at Hanover Court, added:

When Phil got in touch about gifting us a handcrafted chess set, we were touched by the warm gesture. For a fellow Anchor residents’ group to provide us with just what we needed to support our chess players was really special. Needless to say, the board has gone down a treat with the residents, who have since been brushing up on their chess skills!

Situated in the heart of Hinckley, Leicestershire, The Dials offers later-living homes for those aged over 55. Exclusively for over-55s, the development provides access to communal facilities including a café, a hair and beauty salon and a residents’ lounge. Residents also benefit from landscaped gardens to allow them to enjoy time outdoors.

For more information about The Dials and apartments available, or to visit the show home, visit the Life In Place website or call 01455 388122.