A WELL-KNOWN author and poet who is due to celebrate his 103rd birthday has written a moving tribute to his carers.

Len Goldman, who reaches the milestone on August 7, read his poem aloud to staff at a garden party at Barford Court care home in Hove, which was organised especially for the occasion.

Care

Mr Goldman wrote the poem, entitled The Gates of Heaven, to pay tribute to the excellent care he received while staying at the home.

The poem reads as follows:

“There’s a bright smiling welcome from this rest home I’ve found.

“My daughter recommends it and her judgement is sound.

“The smile on the faces of those who give such willing service to all,

“I find convincing and I’ve a lot of experience that I can recall.

“Yes, I’m talking of Barford Court and the atmosphere it creates,

“Treating both residents and staff as companions, friends and mates,

“What a world we would live in with such comradely feeling.

“The inner warmth of our hearts so spiritually revealing.”

A former history teacher, Mr Goldman was born in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, in 1916.

He moved to Brighton with his family when he was a young boy.

He has been writing throughout his life.

Mr Goldman has published three books documenting his experiences growing up in Brighton in the 1920s and 30s.

In addition he wrote about his wartime experiences in India. He has also had a book of poetry published.

Mr Goldman is planning to enjoy a quiet 103rd birthday celebration with his wife of 56 years, Rita, as well as members of his close family and friends.

Deidre Johnson, who is the manager at Barford Court, said: “It was our absolute pleasure to care for Len

here.

“We’re delighted that he’s feeling well rested in time for his milestone 103rd birthday, which we are sure will be a day to remember.

Touched

“We were really touched that he was inspired to write a poem about our home.

“When he read it aloud in our garden there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

“It was a lovely gesture and it was much appreciated by every one of our members of staff.”

Run by the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, Barford Court offers residential care and dementia support as well as short-term respite care.