Three owls and a skunk nearly went to sea, but ended up at a fayre

Three owls and a skunk were among the more unusual patrons of the Nautilus Mariners' Park Summer Fayre in 2024.

The unusual menagerie brought by a specialist owner, fascinated residents, their families and other visitors equally during the event held on 20 July at Mariners' Park Estate which overlooks the banks of the River Mersey.

The Fayre also had an interesting array of fundraising stalls and prizes such as hook a duck; name the teddy (to win a giant teddy bear with chocolates and wine); guess how many sweets in a jar; and a tombola.

There were also some pre-loved fashion stalls, a homemade cake stall, and a well- attended 'win a bottle' competition – where prizes included anything from a bottle of whisky to an empty bottle.

Fun music routines, dancing, a sensory table and boxes with old objects for were also a great hit with the Care Home residents, and the park chef's food and refreshment team's drinks were a sell-out success as well.

Planning your nautical retirement?

To arrange a visit to Mariners' Park, talk about the retirement options, or register to have your name added to the accommodation list, email welfare@nautilusint.org or call 0151 346 8840. There is more information at www.nautiluswelfarefund.org

Visit the Nautilus Welfare Fund

Living at the Park

What former Union members and other residents interviewed who have lived at the park long-term and more recently appreciate most about living at the Park:

• 'similar life experiences with many other former mariners'
• 'secure living accommodation'
• 'peace of mind that all needs are met on one site'
• 'staff always on hand, and support for a seamless move onto the park'
• 'help with bills, benefits when required'
• 'excellent reputation'
• 'events and activities are always going on'

Image: An aerial view of Mariners' Park/ Brad Wakefield

Visit the Nautilus Welfare Fund Find out more about Mariners' Park