It's not every day that you discover there’s a talented artist living under the same roof as you – but that’s what residents at Astbury Lodge care home, in Great Sutton, were amazed to find one afternoon during the home’s weekly art club sessions.
They saw 91-year-old Harry York, originally from Chester, who has been painting the surrounding Cheshire landscape ever since he retired.
He has built up an impressive collection of beautiful oil paintings over the years – even exhibiting his work locally.
Upon moving to Astbury Lodge, residents and staff were deeply impressed by Harry’s talents and have mounted a permanent exhibition of his work in the home’s entrance hall for everybody to appreciate.
Harry is honoured by the attention that his paintings have received.
He said: “It’s lovely to see my work hanging on the walls, and to watch people admire it as they pass through.
“I’ve always enjoyed painting – ever since my school days – and find it very relaxing. It takes you to an entirely different place, much like my other hobby: gardening.”
Harry is a self-taught artist and has been perfecting his skill since he retired from his job working at Shell UK’s Stanlow refinery.
Phil Daniels, home manager at Astbury Lodge, said: “You discover some amazing things talking to the residents here – they’ve all led such fascinating lives and everyone has a story to tell.
“We have been supporting Harry to continue with his painting through our weekly arts and crafts sessions.”
