Blagdon Village residents discover the benefits of downsizing

Local charities were the unlikely beneficiaries when George and Valerie Williams took the tough decision to downsize in their retirement.

Their large four bedroom home was full of items they – and their family - had collected over 44 years.

But moving into a three bedroom cottage at Blagdon Village, Taunton’s retirement village, meant self-confessed hoarder Valerie had to decide what was to go and what was to stay.

Not wanting anything to go to waste, the couple earmarked plenty of items to be sent to their local charity shops. And although it was difficult parting with so many memories, Valerie’s delighted with the outcome.

“Hopefully we’ve helped the charities raise some money to be given to good causes. And we’re settling well into our new home,” said Valerie.

Downsizing is becoming more popular, especially among couples whose children have flown the nest.

“We had an attractive garden at our house in Ferndown in Dorset,” said Valerie. “But it had got to the stage where we couldn’t keep it as we wanted.”

Blagdon Village, in the sought-after Haines Hill area of the town, has the benefits of a large garden but with none of the work as a maintenance team take care of the upkeep.

And despite their new home being smaller the couple still have the luxury of an en suite bathroom, conservatory and study. And there’s room for visits from family and friends.

“Our only regret is that we didn’t move to a Retirement Village 10 years ago when we’d have had more energy to enjoy the beautiful Somerset countryside and village life,” said Valerie, who’s 77. “As soon as we read about the concept of Retirement Villages we knew it would suit us. The idea of Blagdon Lodge - the communal club house - and the social events sounded exciting.”

Valerie and George, who celebrated his 80th birthday in March, have already made friends in Blagdon Village and are now looking forward to welcoming more new neighbours.

“It’s exciting watching the village developing and seeing people move in,” said Valerie. “We’re really pleased to be here and looking forward to enjoying all it has to offer.”




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