In celebration of Share a Story Month, Copperfield Court care home resident, 90-year-old Brian Sleightholm, told the inspiring tale of being founder and president of the beloved St Peters Village Tour.
Brian, a lifelong history enthusiast, created the tour in 1994 alongside his late wife, driven by a passion for the rich heritage of St Peters and Broadstairs. Brian said,
“I founded the tour, with support from the church community and my loved ones, to bring people together and to showcase the beauty of Broadstairs.”
For over 25 years, he led thousands of visitors on a theatrical and educational journey through the village, complete with costumed guides and vivid storytelling.
As part of Share a Story Month, Brian is revisiting his favourite memories of the tour — especially the moment when he would gather his audience on the village green to share stories of its fascinating past.
“The green has always been my favourite stop – it’s where the history feels most alive.” Brian shares. “The tour would take place every Thursday, and you would have to book in advance due to the high demand. I was always touched by the amount of people that wanted to take part.”
Brian proudly showed his British Empire Medal to the residents and team at Copperfield Court, which he received for his services to tourism in Kent.
Eve Balcombe, the General Manager at Copperfield Court, said, “Brian’s story is a testament to how one person’s passion can spark a lasting community tradition – the tour is still popular today. We are so proud to celebrate his legacy during Share a Story Month.”
You can meet Brian and the rest of the residents at Copperfield Court during the homes weekly event, Tea on Tuesday, which takes place at 10:30 in the home on Northwood Road, Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 2NH.
To find out more or share your memories and pictures of the St Peters Village Tour, call 01843 423 207, email copperfield@oystercarehomes.co.uk or visit Copperfield Court’s website.
Copperfield Court in Broadstairs, operated by Oyster Care Homes, offers 24-hour residential, dementia and respite care for up to 66 people. With ensuite bedrooms, beautiful social spaces, and landscaped gardens, Copperfield Court offers an inclusive fee to give peace of mind to its residents and families.
