AN elderly man with dementia was granted his wish to see the sea one more time.

Richard Mockett, a resident at the MHA Richmond care home in Bexhill, has always had a passion for the sea and built his own boat as a child.

The 93-year-old was able to take advantage of the MHA charity’s Seize The Day scheme, which helps older people fulfil a dream of one thing they would like to achieve.

Richard was accompanied by Joy, his wife of 57 years who also suffers from dementia, to enjoy an afternoon tea at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill, followed by a stroll along the promenade.

Joy said: “The day out was lovely, it was such a treat. Richard is very well looked after at MHA Richmond.”

Hannah Deeprose, activities co-ordinator at the care home said: “It was a very touching experience for us to be able to fulfil Richard and his wife’s last wish.

“You could see in both of their faces just how much it meant to them.

“We are always looking for new ways to help our residents live later life to the full and the Seize The Day scheme is such a fundamental part of that.”

Richard is wheelchair-bound and has an end-of-life care plan in place known as a Peace plan, which is for people with dementia.

He had a successful career as a dentist in Rye and served his community until the age of 62.

After retiring he spent a lot of time out at sea with friends from Rye Boating Club.

Dionne McEwan, home manager at the care home, said: “This has been my first Seize The Day since becoming a manager at MHA Richmond and it has been such a pleasure for so many reasons.

“We will continue to fulfil many more of our residents’ last wishes – thank you to our fantastic team of carers for making this possible.”