A former civil engineer and lifelong tram enthusiast has found himself back on the right track with a nostalgic visit to the Museum of Transport in Manchester.
David Rumney, 77 and resident at Care UK’s Long Stone Manor on Manchester Road, has spent his life in the fast lane of the transport industry, dedicating 40 years as a civil engineer, author and tram system expert. David’s work took him to far places such as Dubai and Liberia, before returning to Manchester.
His achievements include writing the book Diversionary Works for Utilities, producing an educational programme about the infrastructure beneath tram systems and running a successful business called David Rumney Engineers.
David also played a key role in the Manchester Metrolink project, where he met his wife Christine more than 28 years ago.
David’s wife, Christine, said: “We are very proud of David and all he has achieved. During his time with the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, he took great pleasure in walking the routes, overseeing the planning and organisation, and attending meetings to help ensure the project’s success.”
Transport runs through David’s veins, and the special day out at the museum gave him a chance to see more than 70 vintage buses, trains and other vehicles.
This memorable experience was made possible through the Care UK Wishing Tree initiative, which enables residents to put forward activities they would like to do to reconnect with past passions or try something completely new. Whether it’s a fish and chip supper, a skydive or a trip to the zoo, no wish is too big or too small.
Emma Tillyer, Home Manager at Long Stone Manor, said: “David is so passionate about all things transport and it’s so lovely that we have been able to give him this special day out to bask in his passions.
“It’s incredibly important to us that residents live independent and rewarding lives and that they have opportunities to reminisce by reconnecting with hobbies. David’s dedication and expertise in his field are so inspiring, and it’s great to see him able to still enjoy what he loves.
“I’d like to extend a huge thank you to the Museum of Transport and the Long Stone Manor team for helping make David’s wish come to life.”
Long Stone Manor is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, for up to 60 people. The home has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, and there is plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation. The building has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.
