Bakewell care home manager and resident bond over passion for pigeons

The 87-year-old with photographs of his pigeons.

Norman Weaver, 87, a resident at Burton Closes Hall Care Home, in Bakewell, and the home manager Lauri Smith only realised they shared the same interest after a passing conversation.

Norman had a flock of 25 racing pigeons in his younger years, including a few competition winners he used to keep in a pigeon loft in his home village, Heage.

Whereas Lauri only started taking in ex-racing pigeons in July last year – and now homes seven birds.

Norman is pictured with pigeon Princess.

Lauri has since brought a pigeon into the home for Norman to see, which he named Princess, and Norman has been passing on his extensive knowledge to Lauri about how to care for the birds – including diagnosing an injured wood pigeon.

He said: “I’m glad I’ve been able to help Lauri care for her birds. It was nice of her to bring Princess in to see me.

“I enjoy having catch ups about our birds. I love to hear what they’re up to daily.”

Norman has also helped diagnose an injured wood pigeon. Lauri showed him pictures and he noticed the tail feathers had all snapped at the base. He advised her to pull them out so new ones would grow back – and the pigeon has since started flying again.

Lauri said: “I couldn’t have looked after them so well without his help.

“I didn’t think I would enjoy looking after the birds so much but Norman’s passion for them has helped build my excitement and enthusiasm.”