A big cheer for bugs

Local school children and retired homeowners celebrate gardening and nature  

Green-fingered pupils from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School joined our homeowners at Brookfields House, Newcastle-under-Lyme, recently for an afternoon of creativity, learning and sharing. The event brought different generations together to enjoy the gardens and discover more about wildlife. 

Guided by our garden design expert James King, and his colleague Josh Slater, the children and homeowners worked side by side to gather natural materials and build bug hotels. The activity encouraged the pupils to explore the natural world while giving homeowners the chance to share their love of gardening and enjoy time with the younger generation. 

Mike Keane, General Manager at Brookfields House, said: “It was wonderful to welcome the children to Brookfields House. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and the bug hotels will be a great addition to our gardens.” 

Respecting nature

James King said: “We design and maintain the gardens for homeowners to enjoy all year round.” He explained that bug hotels also play an important role in creating a healthy balanced garden. By attracting beneficial insects, they help to keep pests under control, improve soil fertility and support the wider ecosystem. This is particularly valuable during dry spells, as richer soils can retain water for longer, helping the gardens at Brookfields House to flourish. 

Let the challenge commence

Mrs Ravenscroft, Assistant Headteacher at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, said: “Our pupils loved getting their hands dirty and learning more about nature. They were impressed by how beautiful the gardens already are, and they’re excited to come back in the future to see how their planting and the bug hotels have developed.” 

Bug cuddling

Homeowner Cilla, who took part in the event, said: “It was lovely to share our gardens with the children and pass on a love of gardening and nature. If we can spark their curiosity about wildlife and growing things, that feels like a gift to the next generation.” 

Homeowner John added: “I think it’s wonderful to foster good relationships with our local schools. Hopefully this will be the first of many visits. I know the children are looking forward to coming back to see how their bug hotels develop.” 

Hooray for a great day

After the bug hotel building, the children enjoyed refreshments in the activities studio and were given a tour of the retirement community by General Manager Mike Keane. The visit clearly made an impression – one child announced they planned to live at Brookfields House when they turn 55, while another said they were going to start saving straight away so they could buy an apartment there. 

Brookfields House offers one, two and three-bedroom age-exclusive apartments, alongside a range of communal facilities including a homeowners’ lounge, coffee lounge, restaurant, hair salon, therapy room, and activities suite. A dedicated team is on hand around the clock, with optional tailored care packages available for extra peace of mind. 

Find out more about the thoughtfully designed retirement apartments, or book a tour of the beautifully furnished show apartments, open to view Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, at Brookfields House, on Clayton Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme. You can call the friendly sales team, Claire and Jason, on 01782 958850

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