Retirement complex is named after local artist

The name Sheldon Lodge was chosen from a host of entries after Churchill Retirement Living ran a competition to name the site in High Street.

Well-known Mr Sheldon was a renowned war artist, documenting life on the front line during World War Two.

He was famous in the town for his paintings of local people and places and was often seen with his easel in the High Street.

The name for the retirement homes was put forward by Gordon Pearson, who knew Mr Sheldon and his wife Joan well.

Mr Pearson won £100 for his winning suggestion, which he chose to donate to the Hospice of St Francis in Northchurch.

The charity’s corporate fundraising manager Carolyn Addison said: “We are very grateful to Gordon for his kind donation. We know that, as a local man, Gordon is very familiar with the charity and was keen to support the work that we do.

“80 per cent of the costs of running the hospice come from the community, so this donation is very much appreciated and will be put towards the medical and nursing care and emotional support we provide to our patients and their families.”

Sheldon Lodge is made up of 48 one and two bedroom apartments, which have been designed for the over 60s.