Isle Of Wight MP Joins 91-Year-Old Resident For 70 Toe-Touch Challenge In Cowes

The MP for Isle of Wight West has visited a sheltered housing scheme in Cowes to mark a major milestone — and found himself taking part in an energetic challenge set by one of its residents.

Richard Quigley visited Abbeyfield House in Cowes to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Abbeyfield Living Society, which was founded in 1956.

During the visit, 91-year-old resident Kathleen invited the MP to join her in completing a personal challenge she had set to honour the anniversary — 70 toe-touches in one day.

Mr Quigley accepted and attempted to keep pace as Kathleen powered through the exercise.

Despite being 37 years younger, the MP reportedly struggled to match her speed and enthusiasm.

Kathleen found the moment highly amusing and, after completing the challenge, said she felt she could “do it all again”.

Abbeyfield is marking its 70th anniversary with a year-long programme of celebrations across its care homes, sheltered housing schemes and independent living complexes nationwide.

Residents, staff and volunteers are organising special events, strengthening community links and setting personal goals to commemorate the occasion.

Following the toe-touch challenge, Mr Quigley joined residents for coffee and cake, arranged to form the number 70.

He also took part in a question-and-answer session, discussing a range of local issues including transport, education, housing and the challenges Island residents face — such as travelling to the mainland for some medical treatments.

House manager Lois Rogers said she felt the MP showed genuine interest in the concerns of residents.

She said:

“I felt that he genuinely cared for the people on the Isle of Wight and would take forward local issues to Parliament, including those with links to the Island, as well as general conversation about Government support.”