July 2014 – Staff at The Royal Star & Garter Home in Solihull were honoured to receive a tapestry, depicting the Star & Garter emblem, handmade by one of the residents, Ivor Jackman.

Ivor came to live at The Royal Star & Garter’s Solihull Home in 2013, having watched it being built from his former home on Monkspath Hall Road. Ivor’s military career was with the RAF. He enlisted in 1941, joining 107 Squadron as part of the Maintenance Unit. After the war, he was posted to Kenya, with 46 Squadron Maintenance Unit, and was involved in dismantling bombing equipment from Lancaster Bombers.

In keeping with the Charity’s mission to help residents to live life to the full, staff at the Home enjoy supporting Ivor in his hobby, tapestry-making. His most recent success, the stunning tapestry of The Royal Star & Garter Homes’ emblem, was designed by eye, working from the wooden emblem inlaid into the foyer floor at the Solihull Home.

Ivor’s attention to detail is amazing: from his precise needlework to his wish to iron the finished piece himself. He was so pleased when staff helped him he promised to do all the Home’s ironing the next day, then added with a chuckle: “You know what they say about tomorrow – tomorrow never comes!”

Ivor presented the tapestry to the Charity’s Chief Executive, Mike Barter, at a special unveiling ceremony to celebrate Ivor’s work. Mike commented: “We are delighted to receive this gift, not just because it celebrates Ivor’s skills but also because it represents the support and mutual respect that exists between the Charity and the residents.”

The tapestry has been framed and hung in the foyer for all to enjoy. Meanwhile, Ivor is working on a new, top-secret, project.