Poole care home residents visit Dorset's Tank Museum

Residents from Care South’s Dorset House care home in Poole enjoyed a day out to The Tank Museum in Wareham, which houses hundreds of military machines.

During the visit, a resident named Dorothy was able to find out about and see the tank her veteran husband fought in during the Second World War more than 75 years ago.

Much to Dorothy’s delight, museum worker James was able to identify the tank using a photo Dorothy had bought along with her. James shared stories of the battles the tank had been involved in and revealed that his grandfather had also served in the war.

Dorset House care home resident Dorothy at the Tank Museum in Dorset. (Image: Care South)

James demonstrated his expertise about the machinery by revealing the tank Dorothy’s husband worked on was an American design. The American design was dwarfed in comparison to the German tanks, and in a one-to-one battle would have been demolished by the opposition’s heavy machinery.

Dorset House residents took part in a simulation experience of life in the trenches, listened to stories of the war, dressed up in costumes from the time, and even got to experience life on the tanks.

Sam Baker, activities lead at Dorset House, said: “It was a fantastic day that brought back a lot of memories for residents in our care, particularly Dorothy who feels closer to her husband than ever before. We would like to thank James and all the staff at the museum for the wonderful and historical day out.”