SUMMER 2025
EMBRACING
THE JOURNEY
Living your best
life after 60
THE
MINDFUL BRAIN
Gentle mental exercises
to sharpen your focus
TIPS ON MAKING
A HOUSE A HOME
An interior designer's
top tips for Summer
RESTORATIVE
MOVEMENT
Discover the benefits
of Tai Chi
PAGE 2
Introduction to
Pegasus Homes
Welcome from
Steve Bangs, CEO
PAGE 4-7
Spotlight on Bristol
PAGE 8
Embracing your
outdoor spaces
PAGE 10-13
Tips on making
a house a home
With Mel Nicholson
PAGE 14
Homes with a view:
Wooburn Bales,
Buckinghamshire
PAGE 16-19
Embracing the journey
Positive ageing with
Jennifer Savin
PAGE 20-23
A new beginning
Maria Stopps' journey
to Pegasus Homes
PAGE 24
A day in the life
With Harriet Hawkins
PAGE 26
Restorative movement
Keeping fit with Tai Chi
PAGE 28-31
Summer Footsteps
Discover your doorstep's
hidden gems
PAGE 32-35
Walking month
A testament to our
communities’ spirit
PAGE 36
Pawsitively perfect living
Lymington Gate,
Hampshire
PAGE 38
Q&A
With Francesco Lategna
PAGE 40
Discover the charming
market town of
Wilmslow, Cheshire
PAGE 42
Welcome home
Moving (back)
to Latheram House,
Cheltenham
PAGE 44
Recent events
PAGE 46
Brave the shave
Raising money and
awareness for Macmillan
PAGE 48
Bude, glorious Bude
Atlantic Rise celebrates
10 Years of coastal
community
PAGE 50
The mindful brain
Online games for
cognitive wellness
PAGE 52
Our communities
Contents
Contents
S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
elcome to the summer
issue of our LifeStyle
magazine. And what
a summer it is shaping up to
be already!
As we go to press, we have just kicked
off our Summer Garden party series
which we hold each year, inviting
prospective customers and our residents
to join together at a selection of our
wonderful communities to enjoy live
music, a BBQ and some cocktails in the
sun. These parties are always thoroughly
enjoyable and made even more so by the
glorious weather we are experiencing
lately. Events like these are a great way
to demonstrate the joy that can be had
when you live in a Pegasus community,
and I hope to see as many of you as
possible at the upcoming events.
This Summer issue of the magazine
features an interview with Mel
Nicholson, Interior Designer and
Founder of Nicholson Interiors,
who shares her tips on making a new
apartment feel like home. Mel recently
dressed our show apartment at our
beautiful community in Falmouth,
The Fitzroy. If you have recently moved
in to your new Pegasus Home, be sure
to have a read and pick up some
of her top tips.
I mentioned this in the last issue of
the magazine but we weren’t able to
share the details, but I’m delighted that
the press feature with Cosmopolitan
Magazine went live in December last
year, featuring some of our incredible
residents from Bath, Bristol,
Steepleton and Surrey. The feature
discusses society’s views and stigmas
on ageing, particularly towards women,
and our residents did a fantastic job of
setting the story straight and shared
their views on ageing. It was a very
thought provoking and quite emotional
read and I’d urge you to read on for some
life changing advice. One particular line
that resonated with me, was:
This isn't about pretending we're not
getting older. It's about embracing the
journey, enjoying later living and the
privilege of more years.
I couldn’t agree more.
It was National Walking month in
May, and we invited Pegasus staff and
residents to come together in an effort
to walk 6,000 miles and raise money
for Re-Engage, a charity that aims
to reduce loneliness in older people,
a vision that resonates with what
we do at Pegasus Homes.
I hosted a walk at Highfields in West
Byfleet and was delighted to be joined
by so many residents, and others in my
team joined walks in Wooburn, London,
Bath, Cobham, Steepleton, Lymington
and Lichfield. Residents in Cornwall,
Newcastle and everywhere in between
took up the challenge and participated
and hopefully all felt the benefits,
physically and mentally, of getting out
in the air and moving.
In total, we walked (and wheeled) nearly
7,000 miles and have raised over £900
L I F E . S T Y L E
An introduction
to Pegasus Homes
for the charity. A huge thank you
to everyone who joined us in the
challenge - you can read about walking
month, re-engage and see some of the
photos of the walks around our beautiful
communities in this issue.
I hope you all enjoy this issue of the
magazine and have an enjoyable Summer.
If you are reading this and not yet a resident
at a Pegasus Homes community, please get
in touch with my team who would be very
happy to speak with you.
Steve Bangs
Chief Executive Officer
S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Welcome to Bristol.
Where the enduring legacy of Brunel, including the iconic Clifton
Suspension Bridge, blends with a contemporary art scene,
most notably Banksy, to offer a wonderfully balanced city lifestyle
with something to appeal to everyone.
Spotlight
on
Bristol
L I F E . S T Y L E
The Redland district, characterised by its
leafy avenues, elegant Victorian architecture,
and a strong sense of community, provides a
tranquil yet well-connected base from which
to enjoy the local area and beyond. Residents
enjoy easy access to the city's vibrant
cultural scene, unique independent
boutiques, and expansive green spaces,
providing the perfect backdrop for a fulfilling
and active lifestyle. The Vincent, nestled
within this sought-after neighbourhood,
serves as a gateway to all that Bristol
has to offer.
Nature's Embrace:
The Green Heart of Bristol
One of Bristol's most appealing features
is its abundance of green spaces. The Downs,
a vast expanse of protected parkland,
provides a serene escape from city life.
Here, residents can immerse themselves
in nature, enjoying leisurely walks or gentle
bike rides. Throughout the year, The Downs
plays host to a variety of events, bringing
the community together and providing
opportunities for outdoor recreation.
A Cultural Tapestry:
Museums, Galleries, and Theatres
Bristol's cultural scene is known across
the country as being rich and diverse.
The city's historic floating harbour
is a hub of activity, home to the Arnolfini
contemporary arts gallery, the Bristol Science
Centre, and the Watershed, Britain's first
media centre.
When it comes to theatre, Bristol truly
shines. The Bristol Old Vic, one of the
oldest continuously working theatres
in the English-speaking world, presents
a captivating range of performances.
From timeless classics that resonate
through generations to bold, cutting-edge
productions that challenge and inspire, the
Old Vic offers a rich theatrical experience.
The continually growing amount of theatres
and performance spaces across the city
contribute to a lively and dynamic theatre
scene, ensuring there's always a captivating
show to discover.
Shopping and Socialising:
Independent Boutiques & Café Culture
The neighbourhoods surrounding
The Vincent are a treasure trove for shoppers
and social butterflies. Whiteladies Road,
a bustling thoroughfare, is lined with
independent boutiques, delis, and cafes,
creating a vibrant and convivial atmosphere.
A weekly farmers' market offers a delightful
array of fresh produce, locally crafted goods,
and artisanal treats.
S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Clifton Arcade, a beautifully preserved
Victorian building, houses a collection
of unique, independent shops, providing
a charming and distinctive shopping
experience.
Connectivity and Convenience:
Transport Links and Accessibility
Bristol boasts excellent transport links,
making it easy to explore both the local
area and further afield. For those looking
to venture beyond the city, Bristol's strategic
location offers convenient access to
neighbouring towns and cities. The historic
city of Bath is just a short train or car journey
away, offering a wealth of cultural attractions
and architectural splendour. Bath Leat by
Pegasus, located on the banks of the river
Avon enjoys an enviable location moments
from the city centre. The picturesque
Cotswolds, with its charming villages
and rolling hills, are also within easy reach,
providing opportunities for countryside
escapes. For those dreaming of retiring
to the Cotswolds, Steepleton is located
in the picturesque market town of Tetbury.
Furthermore, Bristol Temple Meads railway
station, a major transport hub, offers direct
train services to London Paddington, with
journey times of just over an hour, making
it simple to connect with the capital.
Beyond the well-known attractions,
Bristol is a city of hidden gems, waiting
to be discovered. From its vibrant street
art scene to its historic harbourside,
there’s always something new to explore.
The city’s commitment to sustainability,
its rich maritime history, and its thriving
arts scene make it a truly unique and
compelling place to call home.
SPOTLIGHT ON BRISTOL –
Interested in making the move to one
of the country's most vibrant cities?
The Vincent can be found close to the
Downs, exclusively for the over 60s.
T: 0117 981 4351
E: thevincent@pegasushomes.co.uk
L I F E . S T Y L E
Th e
Vin
cen
t, B
ris
tol
S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Whether you have a balcony or a large
garden, your outside space is a precious
asset. It’s a place to breathe, relax, and
connect with nature, no matter the size
of the space. For those enjoying later life,
a balcony, patio, communal garden,
or terrace can become an easier space
to manage, whilst still enjoying the
benefits gardening can bring.
Creating your ideal outdoor space
The key to a successful outdoor space
is personalisation. Consider what brings
you joy. Do you love a colourful garden,
or would you rather perennial plants that need
less maintenance? Do you like a morning coffee
in the sun, or an evening tipple watching the
sunset? Remember what aspect you enjoy
when it comes to buying your next home.
•
Balconies & Small Patios
Even a small balcony can be transformed
into a lush oasis. Pots and planters are your
friend here, with different sized pots creating
variety. Comfortable seating, such as a bistro
set, creates a cosy nook.
•
Communal Gardens
if you live in a community with communal
gardens, engage with the other residents.
Enjoy the shared space, perhaps by creating
a gardening group or simply enjoying a glass
of wine together al-fresco. These spaces are
perfect for social interaction and enjoying
the beauty of nature together.
“Rudbeckias are excellent
for extending Summer flowers
into late Autumn. The annual varieties
are dramatic with rich zonal colour
combinations across their showy
daisy like petals. I love them as they
also make excellent cut flowers”
– JONATHAN MOSELEY, FLORAL DESIGNER
L I F E . S T Y L E
Seasonal Summer Tips
As summer arrives, it’s time to maximise your
outdoor enjoyment. Here are our tips for keeping
your personal outdoor space thriving throughout
the brighter months.
•
Planting & Colour
Fill your space with vibrant summer blooms.
Consider drought-tolerant plants like lavender,
geraniums, and succulents, which are easier
to maintain.
•
Height & textures
Jonathan Moseley recommends: “When
planting Summer tubs and containers try
to achieve different heights and textures by
selecting interesting plant combinations. Lilies
add immediate luxury and fabulous fragrance.
Plants with a low trailing habit like Bacopa,
nemesia and diascias provide a wealth
of flowers throughout the Summer.”
•
Enjoying the Evenings
As the sun sets, outdoor lighting creates
a magical atmosphere. Solar-powered fairy
lights, lanterns, and candles can transform
your space into a tranquil retreat. Remember
to check the terms of your lease before adding
anything to the structure of the balcony.
Mindful Moments
Jonathan Moseley highlights that “Flowers not
only bring joy, they are proven to help with mental
health.” Your outdoor space is for enjoyment,
and connecting with nature significantly benefits
your mental well-being. Simply sit and appreciate
the beauty around you: the colours, the sounds,
the fresh air. Engaging your senses reduces stress
and boosts mood. By embracing these simple
moments in your outdoor haven, you enhance
your overall wellbeing and enrich your life.
S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Details make perfection
If you have opted for a light fitting with a chrome
finish for example, follow that finish through
into accessories such as photo frames and
choose colours that complement the cool tone.
Alternatively, if you have black or brass, continue
that theme through.
From a windswept Cornish beach house studio, Interior Designer and
Founder of Nicholson Interiors, Mel Nicholson creates beautiful interiors,
designed to turn houses into homes.
Inspired by the infinite beauty of nature, the
changing of the seasons and the wild elements
of the ocean, Mel is an interior design consultant,
specialising in creating innovative show homes
and bespoke home staging for private clients
and the house building industry covering
the South West of England.
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3
Let there be light
Colour and natural light is important for well-
being, keep windows uncovered and clutter free,
swap out heavy fabrics for sheer voile curtains
and introduce lightweight linens or silk floral
fabrics for a light and airy feel.
Beauty is in the eye
of the beholder
Layering natural textures is big in interiors this
year, throw in some natural fabrics, cushions
and throws in cheerful yellows, soft lavenders
and pale green hues, go wild and reflect your
personal sense of style.
Having recently dressed one of our beautiful
one bedroom homes in our Falmouth community,
The Fitzroy, we caught up with Mel who shares
some of her top tips and inspiration on ways
to transform your living space into a sanctuary
of calm and wellbeing this summer.
INTERIOR DESIGN MASTERS —
L I F E . S T Y L E
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6
Flower power
Dot living spaces with fresh blooms; potted
leafy indoor plants or a simple jug of aromatic
wild flowers foraged from nature's table will
uplift happiness and wellbeing in your home.
If you like a constant presence without the
continual spend, there are also some wonderful
faux floral alternatives in shops – try stores like
bloomingartifical.com or John Lewis for some
great designs.
Texture talks
Add jute rugs, organic and wooden accessories
and earthy paint colour palettes to introduce
natural elements. A tranquil indoor water feature
will provide calming energy, harmony and
serenity into your living space.
Set the table for Summer
One of the easiest ways to create subtle changes
in your home to signal a new season, is through
accessories. Roll out a linen table runner, coloured
glassware to create an alfresco dining ambience,
decorate your table with wooden serving
bowls, Mediterranean inspired terracotta
and colourful ceramics to create a beach-side
summer-time vibe.
11
S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Don’t forget
about fragrances
Take inspiration from the essence of flowers, and
summer fragrance, choosing diffusers and candles
scented with freesia, jasmine, rose and citrus
will bring the English country garden inside
your home all year round.
Art from the heart
Art is highly subjective, and so there are no
hard and fast rules about artwork. The most
basic advice to give is to choose what brings
you joy when you look at it. Whether a landscape
of your favourite beach, or a portrait from
an artist you like, or even a photograph of your
family on a canvas. Create interest to your home
decor through art.
Serenade your soul
Even the best designed homes with beautiful
finishes and artistic touches, are nothing if they
don't make the resident feel at peace. Home
should make you feel calm and restful and interior
design can really aid this. Listen to music and
soundscapes whilst you enjoy your beautiful
new space!
L I F E . S T Y L E
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For more information about Nicholson
Interiors and to get in touch with Mel,
visit her website at nicholsoninteriors.com
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S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Homes with a view:
Wooburn Bales
Watch a walk-through video of one
of Wooburn Bales’ apartments here:
instagram.com/reel
Where Idyllic Village Life
Meets Modern Living
All year round, residents of our Wooburn Bales
community are treated with breathtaking views
of idyllic countryside. Perfectly positioned
in a picturesque, sociable village with views
of hills, woods and meadows, Wooburn Bales
is a community of modern apartments with large
windows that take advantage of the fabulous
outlook. Many have generously sized private
balconies too.
L I F E . S T Y L E
14
A Village at Your Doorstep
Step outside your front door and within minutes,
you'll find yourself on the charming village green,
the beating heart of Wooburn Green. This idyllic
space is framed by quaint, historic cottages and
a delightful array of amenities including an 18th
century pub, inviting you to unwind and take
in the timeless atmosphere. Whether you're
looking for a traditional pub lunch, a gourmet
Italian meal at Dolce Vita, or a freshly baked
pastry from the local patisserie, your culinary
desires are effortlessly catered to. A well-stocked
supermarket ensures everyday conveniences
are within easy reach.
The Best of Both Worlds
Wooburn Bales offers a unique lifestyle
proposition: the tranquillity of village life,
enveloped by the protective embrace of the
Chiltern Hills, combined with the vibrancy
of nearby towns. Just a short drive away,
you'll discover the bustling charm of Henley
and Marlow, offering a wealth of shopping, dining,
and entertainment options. For those seeking
a wider horizon, London and Oxford are easily
accessible by car or train, making Wooburn Bales
an ideal base.
Active Living in an Area
of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Beyond the charming village centre, Wooburn
Green offers a wealth of opportunities for an
active and fulfilling lifestyle. Fitness enthusiasts
will find a selection of golf clubs, a tennis club,
and a comprehensive health and fitness center
boasting both indoor and outdoor pools.
The surrounding landscape, designated an
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a haven
for walkers. Explore the myriad of trails that
wind through the rolling hills and woodlands,
immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the
Chilterns. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll
or a challenging hike, you'll find endless
opportunities to connect with nature.
To find out more about Wooburn Bales,
contact us today:
T: 01628 918 061
E: wooburnbales@pegasushomes.co.uk
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S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
This was the heartfelt confession from
Jennifer Savin, Cosmopolitan magazine’s
Features Editor, when she first reached
out to us. Like many people, she was
apprehensive about what ageing might
bring and was eager to hear directly from
those experiencing later life. Her curiosity
led her to Bath Leat, one of our Pegasus
Homes communities, for an overnight
stay that would challenge her perceptions
of retirement living.
“Help! I'm terrified
of ageing!”
From the moment Jennifer arrived, it was clear
that Bath Leat defied traditional expectations.
Far from outdated notions of retirement homes,
she met inspiring individuals who lead full and
dynamic lives, engaging in everything from wine
tastings and art classes to Tai Chi and community
gatherings.
Jennifer described the experience as ‘eye-
opening’. Before her visit, she admitted to
having already set up a “facelift fund,” preparing
for the inevitable physical changes of ageing.
However, spending time with our residents led
to a transformative realisation: life beyond 60
is something to embrace, not fear. She saw first-
hand that ageing doesn’t mean slowing down
or missing out – it’s an opportunity for new
adventures.
The growing conversations around ‘positive
ageing’ is a welcome shift in the way we perceive
growing older. At Pegasus Homes we are proud
to be shaking off the misconception that painted
ageing as a decline. For too long, the beauty
industry, with its relentless quest for eternal
youth, has pushed the message that looking 21 is
the only victory. But perceptions are positively
changing.
What historically was viewed as a time for
slowing down, later living is now something many
of us are excited about; looking forward to a time
where responsibilities may be few, and time to
do what we actually want to be doing, is possible.
br
ac
in
g the jou
rn
L I F E . S T Y L E
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“My advice to young
people: don’t worry
so much about things
you can’t change”
– Lyn, Resident
This isn't about pretending
we're not getting older.
It's about embracing the
journey, enjoying later
living and the privilege
of more years.
What is Positive Ageing?
The concept of Positive Ageing highlights the
enjoyable aspects of growing older. It's about
maintaining a good quality of life, wellbeing,
and active participation in society as we age,
rather than focusing solely on the negative
aspects of ageing such as decline or fragility.
This isn't about pretending we're not getting
older. It's about embracing the journey, enjoying
later living and the privilege of more years.
Curate a Vibrant Lifestyle
Positive ageing is not about denying the
challenges of ageing, but rather about proactively
taking steps to maximise wellbeing and live
a fulfilling life at every stage.
Whilst we appreciate good health and good
wealth are vital for enjoying a happy retirement,
so often people dwell on what they can no longer
do, rather than what is in front of them. Looking
at ageing with a positive lens is a holistic approach
that recognises the importance of physical,
mental, social, and emotional factors in the ageing
process.
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S U M M E R 2 0 2 5
Emotional Mindset
Positive ageing is less about ‘letting life pass
us’, and more about a conscious mindset shift.
From taking note of the good in your life and
looking to the future with a positive outlook,
to challenging negative self-talk and recognising
your achievements and taking part in activities
which provide fulfilment and enjoyment, simple
swaps can help us move away from viewing
ageing as decline, instead seeing it as a gateway
to discovering new and fun opportunities.
Social Connection
Maintaining social engagement is important
to help us foster a sense of community, belonging
and reduce isolation or feelings of loneliness.
Having regular communication with others helps
boost our mental health. From morning coffee
with friends, to joining weekly community
groups such as a walking group or a community
choir, to planning family day trips, creating
communication links is essential to keep
our minds healthy at any age.
Here are some top tips for
living a vibrant life at any age!
Residents at West Byfleet have access to the
Model Dairy. Express yourself, learn a new
skill or share your own talents with others,
whether that’s painting, photography, craft,
or feats of technical wizardry. The Hobby
Room is the perfect place.
“Everyone has
a story to tell,
so meeting people
is so important”
– Sue, Resident
L I F E . S T Y L E
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Physical Wellbeing
By staying as active as you can, nourishing your
body with a healthy balanced diet and managing
any health conditions we can help to look after
our physical health which is crucial to optimise
the ageing process; ensuring we can enjoy
our later years to the fullest.
Lifelong Learning
From trying your hand at new hobbies such
as pottery painting or treating everyday
as a school day by learning a new language,
consistently acquiring new knowledge and
skills not only keeps the mind sharp but also
fuels a positive, engaged approach to ageing.
Residents in The Vincent community have
access to a Gym and Stretch Studio with
state-of-the-start equipment that’s specially
designed to protect older joints. The Gym is
suitable for all fitness levels and the Stretch
Studio has regular Yoga classes from experts
to beginners.
Hear from some of our residents who took part
in the Cosmopolitan article about their views
on positive ageing:
“You have a whole
new life in front
of you”
– Lyn, Resident
Lyn
Sue
Stella
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S U M M E R 2 0 2 5