After 30 years in the building industry, Ian can turn his hand to many types of work. Which is a good job as he is in charge of our maintenance at Birchwood House.
Ian gets called upon to sort out plumbing, and electrics and also does decorating and many other jobs that are needed to keep a historic manor house in excellent condition.
When he’s not working Ian hatches ducks and chickens using his incubator and recently bought some ducklings to meet the residents, which went down really well.
Ian has worked at Birchwood House for two years and enjoys the environment and using his skills to help with the upkeep of the house. He also enjoys a shorter commute to work as his building work used to send him to many places.
Glorious gardens and wildlife
Nine acres of gardens are also under Ian’s care. There is a lot of woodland – with an annual display of beautiful bluebells – and a formal garden where the residents and staff can enjoy visits.
“The gardens have lots of activity with resident deer, foxes, badgers and pheasants,” said Ian, who also enjoys chatting to the residents when they are out in the grounds.
The waterways are Ian’s passion and when he’s not at work he can be found on the Medway in his motorboat.
If you’re looking for a beautiful historic residential home for your loved one, please complete our online enquiry form, call us on 01892 863559 or email us at birchwood@birchwoodhouse.org.uk.
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