A much-loved former resident has been honoured at a Sturminster Newton care home with a room for wellbeing.

Former BBC camera operator Graham Richmond lived at Colton Care’s Newstone House for several years before his death in 2021.

Staff were saddened to lose the long-term resident, who was born and brought up in London and became well known in his later years as a classic car enthusiast, exhibiting regularly in his adopted Dorset town.

After his passing, Graham’s family made a donation to the home, prompting discussions about the idea of creating a ‘Richmond Retreat’ room.

Companionship Team leader Karlene Horswill said: “Graham’s family very kindly donated £5,000 with a hope that we would purchase something to benefit our residents at Newstone House.
“After a few meetings we all agreed we should use the money to not only benefit our residents but as a tribute to Graham as well.
“Many people, including our residents, have described him as a sociable, knowledgeable and very witty man who is sorely missed.”

Newstone House resident Donald Skilling, photographed in front of the wallpaper featuring Sturminster Newton Mill

The Richmond Retreat, a sensory-based room that promotes wellbeing and relaxation for residents living with dementia, was officially unveiled during a special ceremony complete with a toast and ribbon cutting.
“The family were very supportive with the decision, and we added little touches of some of Graham’s favourite things such as being outdoors, bird song and his love of living in Sturminster Newton,” Karlene said.

The room includes mood lighting, pictures of waterfalls and plants, comfortable seating, bird music, a picture donated by artist Charlotte England and a large-scale, wallpaper photo of Sturminster Newton Mill.
Karlene added: “We are hoping the room will be enjoyed by our residents and we welcome their families to come and experience the space with their loved ones too.”
Resident Gillian Glennie said: “What a lovely space. I feel very relaxed, and the picture of the mill is very impressive.”
Opened in 2011, Newstone House is rated as outstanding by care sector regulator, the Care Quality Commission.