John, 91, a resident of Glastonbury Care Home, has dedicated more than 1,200 hours to handcrafting over 300 wooden monkey toys in a heartfelt effort to raise funds for the home and for a local Men’s Shed, where he creates the toys. 

 

John, who moved to Glastonbury Care Home in September 2025, has dedicated his time and talent to whittling the charming wooden monkeys at Men’s Shed in Walton, a dedicated community workshop helping people who may feel isolated or lonely. Attending twice a week, every Tuesday and Thursday, John spends around four hours carefully crafting each monkey. With over 300 completed so far, that equates to more than 1,200 hours of woodworking, the equivalent of 100 full days devoted to his craft. 

 

John is transported to and from Men’s Shed by his son-in-law each week, enabling him to continue a hobby he has enjoyed for more than three years. 

 

John said: “I really enjoy going to Men’s Shed, it keeps my mind and hands busy and I love the banter. 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 his wooden monkey toys for £2 each at Glastonbury Care Home, he also sells them at Men’s Shed, and donates some to local charity shops, ensuring his creations spread smiles far and wide while supporting good causes. 

 

Before retiring, John enjoyed a varied career that saw him move around the country, working within the Police Force, the Air Force, and later in accountancy. John has three children, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren who regularly visit him at Glastonbury Care Home. 

 

This remarkable effort highlights not only John’s dedication and creativity, but also the vibrant community spirit at Glastonbury Care Home, where residents are encouraged to continue pursuing the hobbies they love. 

 

Nisha Binumon, Glastonbury Care Home Manager said: “It’s wonderful having John with us. He’s kind, caring, and always checking if any of his monkeys have sold. 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.”