RESIDENTS at Ashbourne Court Care Home in Andover have been recognised for their many and varied achievements over the year at a celebratory graduation ceremony.

Proving that you’re never too old to learn something new, the enthusiastic pensioners have added an impressive range of skills to their list of many talents by studying new languages, joining bespoke live tours of far-flung places, taking dancing and singing classes, photography courses and have even channelled their inner Banksy by trying out graffiti spray painting.

The Love Learning event is running in Four Seasons care homes across the UK, with family, friends and members of the local community invited to the graduation ceremonies to see residents showcase some of their accomplishments and be presented with their certificates of lifelong learning.

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The home’s manager, Rajesh Ayyappan, said: “Continuing to learn in older age has many benefits. As well as keeping our brains healthy, acquiring new knowledge gives a real sense of purpose and achievement. Our Magic Moments activities programme includes lots of opportunities to get involved, learn new things and above all have great fun together.”

Resident, Margaret Gimson, aged 74, added: “I can’t say I was that keen on school when I was younger but I’ve loved learning lots of new things and feel really proud of myself. My favourite activity has been the dancing sessions; I reckon I’d give those professionals on Strictly a run for their money!”

Meanwhile 86-year-old resident, Joseph Russell, said: “They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks but I’ve learnt so many new things this year. I can now speak a bit of Spanish and French, know how to keep fit by exercising in my chair and I even learnt how to make the best pizza in the world from a chef in Rome.”