Dr Dawn Harper visits Siddington Park in Cirencester

Dr Dawn Harper hosted an exclusive healthy longevity event at Siddington Park off Cirencester’s A419 recently.

The GP and TV personality – health and wellbeing ambassador for retirement village provider Rangeford Villages, which Siddington Park is part of – delivered a talk about her research while writing her book Live Well to 101.

The author, who is passionate about prevention over cure through lifestyle, travelled to the world’s blue zones, conversing with centenarians about their ability to live long lives while remaining active, healthy and fulfilled.

Dr Dawn discussed her many experiences in the UK and across the globe in which people were enjoying super-healthy longevity in later life, as well as the common threads among them.

“People who were born before motor cars became popular, before ultra-processed and fast food and when families thrived together in a close, supportive community had a far healthier lifestyle,” she said.

“They used to walk to get around, they cooked fresh, seasonal food and they regularly engaged at mealtimes with family and friends all around one table.

“They were social and connected.”

The TV doctor is known for presenting the Channel 4 show Embarrassing Bodies.

Her key takeaway was that being active, social and connected with people are the most important things to do to maintain great all-round health and wellbeing.

The audience was fascinated by the TV personality’s narratives and insights.

Following her talk, the floor was opened up for a question and answer session, enabling attendees to delve deeper into the secrets of longevity and healthy living.

In-depth discussions were had about the critical importance of socialising and preventing loneliness.

Guests all agreed that living in a beautiful and active retirement village significantly improved their mental health, positivity and motivation.

After the session, Dr Dawn held a book-signing, during which all guests received a personally-signed complimentary copy of Live Well to 101.

Complimentary afternoon tea was also served courtesy of Siddington Park’s onsite restaurant The Orangery.

Siddington Park’s village manager Will Ryan said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Dr Dawn Harper to Siddington Park as health and wellbeing ambassador for Rangeford Villages.

“Dr Dawn had our audience captivated with her stories and daily tips on living well in our senior years.”