Well known locals unveil “Words of Wisdom” bench at MHA Langholme

Two local well-known sisters unveiled a “Words of Wisdom” bench at MHA Langholme.

June Burfitt and Gloria Richards are known to almost everyone in the Falmouth area and unveiled the bench at the Falmouth home, where their late sister Betty was a resident.

The opening ceremony was just after Christmas and the home arranged for a ribbon to be cut by the two sisters.

Despite the cold weather there were plenty of people in attendance and were served either prosecco or orange juice.

The bench contains quotes from residents and has become the talk of the town with onlookers and members of the community taking a big interest in it.

Teresa Beard, deputy home manager has the perfect view with the bench being almost right outside her office window.

Speaking after the ceremony she said: “June Burfitt and Gloria Richards are both very well-known local ladies. 

“Nearly all of our residents know them, and they have a connection with the home due to the eldest sister Betty, who passed away in 2021.

“They were the perfect fit for our Words of Wisdom bench, and we chose them because this is what the bench represents, our local community.

“It's a thank you to people who live around this area and who have supported us in various ways especially during the pandemic.

“Not only is it a bench with messages and quotes from residents, we also asked them what advice they would give to their teenage self, or what they would say to younger people in our community.

“Some of the quotes are funny and cheeky, which showcases the sense of humour our residents have.

“It's also a great place for residents, staff and members of the community to just sit and reflect and even think about their loved ones who are no longer here.

“The members of the community have really enjoyed stopping, taking a look at the bench and it's been great to see its members of the community from all ages.

“We will continue to keep adding more comments as time progresses and look forward to seeing what the residents have to say.”