TV legends host ‘Refreshers Week’ at Ledian Gardens to celebrate the new development

Ledian Gardens, a brand-new retirement village in Kent, held a jam packed ‘Refreshers Week’ from Tuesday 2nd – Thursday 4th August, with a whole host of special celebrity guests.

Operated by later living provider Inspired Villages, Ledian Gardens is set in the idyllic Kent countryside and historic village of Leeds, near Maidstone. Lord Mayor, Councillor Derek Mortimer joined several British TV and radio legends at the village across the week of celebrations, including Sir Trevor McDonald, Gloria Hunniford, Henry Blofeld and Jim Buttress.

Just like starting university, retirement marks a new lease of life for many with a chance to meet new friends, immerse yourself in new surroundings and take up hobbies. The ‘Refreshers Week’ was an opportunity to showcase everything on offer at the village and provide an insight into the Inspired way of life with an exciting schedule of events.

Tuesday marked the start of the incredible week with a ‘Refreshers Fayre’ featuring live music and entertainment, classic cars and food from the village restaurant. Guests got to take part in a special Q&A and book signing with acclaimed newsreader and journalist, Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, as well as a gardening demo from renowned horticulturist and RHS Judge, Jim Buttress.

On Wednesday, guests were joined by cricket legend, Henry Blofeld, who commentated a friendly game of cricket at Ledian Gardens neighbouring ground, Leeds & Broomfield Cricket Club. Guests then returned back to the village to enjoy a hog roast, Pimms, strawberries and cream and live steel drum band, followed by a Q&A with Henry.

To draw the events to a close on Thursday, one of Britain's best-known TV and radio personalities, Gloria Hunniford, hosted an afternoon tea. Guests got to sample the incredible food that will be on offer at Ledian Gardens to the backdrop of a string trio, as well as enjoy a Q&A from Gloria on everything from staying young at heart and making the most of retirement.

The week offered a great opportunity for guests to explore the first phase of the village and its state-of-the-art facilities which consists of 66 retirement properties, as well as a village centre that includes a swimming pool, sauna, gym, studio, cinema, craft room, restaurant, private dining, café, bar and shop.

Albert Sinfield, Village Manager at Ledian Gardens, commented: “The Refreshers Week was a brilliant way for people to discover what life at Ledian Gardens has to offer, from its top-quality facilities to the fantastic local amenities within Leeds village. Each day saw an excellent turnout and showcased exactly what Inspired living is all about.”