The view from his apartment at Hanover Court inspired John Solomon to learn to sail. His story will inspire anyone learning to overcome an injury or a disability
When John Solomon’s car collided with a lorry 20 years ago his doctors told him that he was unlikely to be able to walk again. However, thanks to his determination he continues to live independently and has just entered into the world of amateur sailing.
John, 62, a former computer programmer and civil servant from Watford suffered a near fatal car crash and spent seven weeks in a coma after sustaining partial brain damage and 18 fractures in various parts of his body.
Despite being told by doctors that he would never even drive again, he has now regained his driving licence and avoids using a wheelchair. “It’s all thanks to one of my sons,” adds John. “One day Christopher was struggling to push me in my wheelchair and from that day onwards I made an effort to strengthen my limbs and have been using crutches ever since.”
After three years on the waiting list John traded in his house in Watford for his dream home, a Hanover Housing Association rented retirement apartment in Penzance, to be near his brother and sister.
Inspired by his sea view he decided to learn how to sail. He was encouraged by estate manager Pauline Robinson who recommended that he contact Age UK Sailability. Within a couple of months John obtained his Royal Yachting Association (RYA) level one and two qualifications. 
“My philosophy is to live life without limits,” he said. “It’s a fantastic sport which all started thanks to the stunning views from my Hanover property.
“I’ve also made lots of friends at the sailing club and also at Hanover Court.” John who has a two-bedroom apartment at the retirement development now plans to take up archery.
Hanover Court in Penzance, Cornwall offers 33 one-and-two-bed apartments. there is also a guest room, residents lounge, and communal garden.
All the properties have sea views overlooking Mounts Bay and St Michael’s Mount. An on-site manager looks after buildings and grounds maintenance and can also offer further help and support if residents need it.
The Hanover Housing Association builds and manages one and two-bedroom properties to rent or buy for the over 55s. It is a not-for-profit organisation with some 19,000 homes in 600 locations. Hanover also has several residences near the sea.
Properties currently for sale on the coast include a one-bedroom apartment in College Court in Brighton for £125,000, a two-bedroom apartment at Patching Lodge Extra Care Housing Estate in Brighton £225,000 and a two-bedroom apartment from Waverly Court Extra Care Housing Estate £220,000. For more information visit: www.hanover.org.uk
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