For many, retirement heralds a slower pace of life but for Cherrill (65) and David West (64), downsizing to Graylingwell Park in Chichester, West Sussex, has brought a whole host of new activities, which is keeping them busier - and healthier - than ever.
While most of us relish the idea of not having to work when we retire, research suggests that keeping active – even for short periods of time – will help you live longer according to a study by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology , cycling or walking for just 20 mins a day can reduce a 60-year-old man’s risk of heart failure by a fifth.
David says: “Since moving to Graylingwell Park we’ve certainly adopted a more active lifestyle and now summer has arrived, Cherrill and I are going out for more walks to explore the amazing South Downs, which is practically on our doorstep.
“I’m also planning to resume cycling. Compared to the Isle of Wight where we lived for three years, the land is a lot flatter so I’ve got no excuse! Plus I’ve always wanted an excuse to upgrade my road bike.”
Cherrill and David’s new way of life goes hand-in-hand with the eco-friendly credentials of the homes and the ‘green’ lifestyle associated with Graylingwell Park, which encourages residents to reduce their carbon footprint by using their car less. " We've also gone to the excellent local independent cinema and music events in town."
David explains: “Instead of driving our car everywhere, we’ve found ourselves walking more as everything is so nearby. We also frequently catch the bus, which runs through Graylingwell Park, as it takes us directly into the city centre – ideal for a day’s shopping or for an evening at the theatre.”
On top of finding a new home in a great location, the couple wanted to move to a friendly new community.
Cherrill says: “We feel we’ve really struck gold moving here as we’ve found a quiet and welcoming neighbourhood. I enjoy visiting ‘The Lodge’ at Graylingwell Park for coffee mornings to catch up with members of the local community and also for the yoga classes that take place there each week. I have also joined Westgate Leisure Centre where I regularly go to the gym and for a swim.
“There’s a great mix of people living here; from young families with children, young professionals and retirees like us – it’s nice and friendly here.”
Set in 85 acres of beautiful parkland, Graylingwell Park is the imaginative regeneration of the former Graylingwell Hospital and one of the largest carbon neutral developments in the UK. A partnership between Linden Homes, Affinity Sutton and the Homes and Communities Agency, it offers high quality, energy-efficient homes, with striking architectural design and contemporary interiors, all set in stunning landscaped surroundings.
Cherrill says: “Graylingwell Park has so much character, it’s beautiful here. Our new four-bedroom detached home really complements its surroundings, and it’s much easier to maintain compared to our old house. The garden was just far too big for the two of us and we much prefer our new courtyard garden. We love the fact we don’t need to spend hours gardening; it’s given us more freedom to enjoy our new hobbies and to see our friends.”
Residents moving to Graylingwell Park are also spoilt for choice for things to do in and around Chichester. It’s less than ten miles away from the alluring South Coast, 4.7 miles from Goodwood Racecourse, where Cherrill and her daughter will be attending 'Glorious Goodwood' Ladies Day this year, and only a mile away from Goodwood Motor Circuit, a place David plans to visit as often as possible.
“I’ve heard the atmosphere is fantastic, much better than watching any other racing on TV!” says David. “It’s another bonus to our happy and active new life here at Graylingwell Park.”
A newly-built, four-bedroom home like Cherrill and David’s, features a spacious, open-plan dining area/living room and kitchen on the ground floor, a separate living room which can be used as an office/study and master bedroom with en suite shower room on the first floor and a further two double bedrooms, single bedroom and separate bathroom on the second floor – ideal for family and guests coming to stay.
Help to Buy is also available on a selection of new and refurbished homes. For more information or to arrange a visit to the show homes, open daily from 10am to 5pm, contact Linden Homes on 01243 781494.
-ENDS-
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