From Heather Wilson, Lancing, West Sussex:

I WAS shocked and saddened to read the excellent article on the possible closure of the wonderful St Vincent’s Care Home (CP, 27-04-18).

If my friend, Babs, had not lived there, I would have known nothing about it.

Babs was very independent, had led a full life with her husband, whom she met when they were serving in the RAF and WRAF. They travelled extensively and were very sporty. She nursed him to the end and it took its toll.

She would not consider going into care until one of her daughters (who lives on the Island) took her to visit St Vincent’s. Babs loved it and moved in quickly, before even putting her bungalow on the market.

She understood the service terms, “rules” and routine and felt relaxed there. My late mum-in-law also loved visiting her there, as her late husband had been in the RAF for many years and she felt comfortable there.

There is great banter between the residents and staff, but there is also great respect for what the residents have done in the past.

I know from my late parents-in-law that having been in the services forms a major part of their memories and way of life and St Vincent’s provides an ideal home for ex-service men and women/widows.

Not everyone can get help from friends and relatives and they cannot be on duty 24/7.

The last time we visited Babs we discussed among ourselves the beauty and potential value of the site and hoped it would survive and not be sold to build luxury flats or several luxury houses.

The last Care Quality Control report was not dreadful, so I see no reason why the home need be under threat of closure.

Anyway, a lot can be done to improve CQC results.

I have written to SSAFFA begging them to think again.