Meet the talented Westbrooks – Pat and Clive of Umdoni Retirement Village

Pat and Clive Westbrook have been blessed with talent in abundance.

The two are residents of Umdoni Retirement Village, moving there in 2006, and quickly becoming involved in the activities and events on offer.

Let’s start off with Clive. Not only was his one of the faces you’d find in the gym on a daily basis, but this gentleman was – and still is – big on music.

His passion for music began at the age of 12 and has grown ever since. He enjoys rock ‘n’ roll and heavy metal and even played the keyboard in his own band.

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: Studies show many elderly people suffer from malnutrition

After undergoing an operation several years ago, Clive discovered something quite interesting about himself – he could now sing!

“I remember hearing this beautiful voice one day and I didn’t recognise it and thought it was a CD playing,” said Pat. “When I walked into the room and saw that it was my husband singing, I immediately got all teary because of how amazing this was.”

Clive then decided to go solo and has been a one man band known as ‘Just Clive’ for 15 years.

“I always have my wife’s support and she and the music keep me alive,” added Clive.

Throughout the years, he has produced several CDs, the latest of which was released last year and sold successfully at the village. He now tries to get involved with as much music and entertainment as he can at the village and has been part of the entertainment team for 10 years.

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: 13 tips to prevent the elderly becoming crime victims

“I had to learn and perfect my talents. I couldn’t sing at first, but with practice every day, this is how far I’ve actually come. So if you want to be the best you can at something, put in the effort each day,” he said.

Now we move on to the ‘creative’ – Pat. Being the only creative person in her family, much like Clive being the only musician from his, Pat discovered her special skill woodcarving – later in life.

Pat was always an arty and creative person, but it was only when she moved to the retirement village that she discovered what she was really capable of.

“I’ve always loved working with my hands so when I heard about a wood carving club at the village, Clive encouraged me to join,” said Pat, “and I’m so grateful he did.”

After joining the club, which had just under 20 members who got together twice a month, Pat realised that she was actually really good at wood carving.

So good that her teacher entered her carvings in the 2011 South African National Wood Carving Competition.

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: Margate Light Plane Club gets new wings

“I was so surprised when I heard that my work was going to be on display and was nervous of the outcome as I had just started,” she said.
Much to her surprise, one of her pieces took second and her magnificent carving of an eagle earned her top spot. Over these few years, Pat has carved between 20 ando 30 pieces, each taking her several months to complete, depending on how busy her schedule actually is.

Now, she mainly carves gifts for friends and family.

“To all the arty people, keep pursuing what you love. Find a hobby and follow your dreams – also make sure that you do this before your retirement, because you wouldn’t want to be bored for the remaining years of your life!”

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram

For news straight to your phone, add us on WhatsApp 082 421 6033