Glastonbury 91-year-old spends 1,200 hours carving monkeys for charity

By Laura Linham 10th Mar 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 10th Mar 2026

A 91-year-old resident at Glastonbury Care Home has spent more than 1,200 hours hand-carving wooden toys to raise money for the home and a local community workshop.

John, who moved into Glastonbury Care Home in September 2025, has crafted more than 300 small wooden monkey toys at the Men's Shed workshop in Walton, dedicating the equivalent of around 100 full days to the project.

Attending the workshop twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, John spends around four hours carefully shaping each monkey by hand.

The Men's Shed provides a community workshop where people can meet, socialise and work on practical projects, often helping those who may feel isolated or lonely.

John is taken to and from the workshop by his son-in-law each week so he can continue the hobby he has enjoyed for more than three years.

"I really enjoy going to Men's Shed, it keeps my mind and hands busy and I love the banter," John said. "I go every Tuesday and Thursday, and the home always makes sure I have a big, packed lunch to take with me.

"The team at Glastonbury Care Home are fantastic, so kind and caring. I can't fault them. I've been going to the Men's Shed for more than three years now and I absolutely love it."

John sells the handmade monkeys for £2 each at Glastonbury Care Home and at the Men's Shed workshop. He also donates some of the toys to local charity shops.

Before retiring, John worked in several professions across the country, including roles in the Police Force, the Air Force and later in accountancy. He has three children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who regularly visit him at the care home.

Nisha Binumon, manager at Glastonbury Care Home, said John's woodworking has become a talking point for staff and visitors alike.

"It's wonderful having John with us. He's kind, caring, and always checking if any of his monkeys have sold," she said. "He often gives them to carers with children because he wants to bring joy to everyone.

"We make sure he gets to Men's Shed and never forget his big, packed lunch. We always look forward to his return, and the bag of monkeys we display at the front desk for people to buy. He's truly a joy to care for."

Residents at the home are encouraged to continue hobbies and interests, with staff supporting trips and activities that help maintain connections with the local community.