93-year-old Alistair Scott has helped gardeners at Harcourt Gardens develop a 9-hole putting green within the grounds.
93-year-old resident helps create 9-hole putting green at Harrogate care home
A green fingered resident at a care home in Harrogate has helped gardeners at the home develop a 9-hole putting green within its grounds.
93-year-old, Alistair Scott moved into Harcourt Gardens in 2021 following a heart attack which meant he required ongoing care, but within a residential setting.
Upon moving into the home, Alistair spent most of his time outdoors and became friendly with the onsite gardener. Having been introduced to gardening by his father at age 8, Alistair was keen to lend a helping hand and spotted a gap in the grounds for a putting green.
Alistair said:
"My first job was cleaning the tools that my father would use - then he taught me the difference between a plant and a weed – only then was I trusted to do weeding."
His dad then graduated him to “tatty” planting.
[caption id="attachment_74424" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Alistair enjoying Harcourt Garden's new putting green.[/caption]Spotted by the home’s CEO one day when he visited the home, Graeme Lee said:
"I was so impressed with Alistair’s knowledge and enthusiasm for gardening that I instantly appointed him ‘Head Gardener’ of Harcourt Gardens."
Graeme added:
“Alistair then made a very smart suggestion to develop a 9-hole putting green as there are many residents at the home who were keen golfers throughout their lives.”
He continued:
“It made sense to create a safe space where residents and their friends and family could enjoy a round of golf together.”
Care home manager at Harcourt Garden’s, Debbie Daniels said:
“It’s been so lovely to see how engaged Alistair has been with the project.
"I’ve worked in care for many years, and this is the first time I’ve seen, or even heard of a putting green being developed at a care home – it’s quite unique.
“From the minute Alistair was appointed Head Gardener he has taken the role very seriously directing the gardeners as to what should go where.
“It’s a great addition to the home and the residents are really enjoying it – they can be quite competitive too!”
Getting a hole in one on the day of the official opening of the putting green, Alistair added:
Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here."I didn’t play golf until later in life during my retirement – in my day it was classed as “a rich man’s sport”, but I’m really enjoying it now."
Storm Goretti: Yellow weather warning for snow in Harrogate
Harrogate clinician awarded King's Ambulance Medal in New Year Honours
New right-to-buy policy to be introduced by North Yorkshire Council
80s popstar Sinitta heaps praise on Harrogate after festive trip
Harrogate Town Council confirm precept hike in 2026/27 budget
Harrogate MP slams Government's "disgraceful" bid to dismantle jury trials
Harrogate café listed for sale after just 15 months
RHS Harlow Carr announces record-breaking visitor numbers
The Traitors star urges sign-ups for Harrogate Race for Life
When the weather turns, turn to Your Harrogate
Government urged to help fund rising costs of special needs education in North Yorkshire
Inspectors praise maternity services at Harrogate District Hospital
Taylor Wimpey submits plans for 320 homes off Penny Pot Lane
Popular Harrogate cheese shop to relocate next week
Harrogate MP renews push to scrap disabled bus pass restriction
New Pilates Studio to open in Harrogate next week
Lightwater Valley announces 'exciting new era' under new ownership
Will we get snow in the Harrogate district?
Ripon pupil seeks seat in UK Youth Parliament
Stalking suspect could be in Harrogate, say police
