A RETIRED couple in Overton have left their 350-year-old thatched cottage after sharing three decades of cherished memories there.

Andrew and Tracy Britten left their home at the centre of Overton to embark on a new chapter in their lives.

The couple, who faced the challenge of finding a property that could accommodate their evolving lifestyle, took nearly three years of diligent searching before finding their home on the Sovereign Gate development in Overton.

Reflecting on their decision, Andrew said: “We had many happy years in our old cottage, with its expansive garden. However, as we contemplated our future, we grew concerned about our ability to provide the care it deserved in our later years. So, three years ago, we began the house-hunting journey, and it took this long to find the perfect place to call home.”

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Sovereign Gate development is part of Bewley's Garden Village Collection.

The turning point for Andrew and Tracy came when the couple discovered Bewley was starting the construction of Sovereign Gate.

Andrew said: “We wanted to see the inside of a house similar to the one we might reserve. A friend had moved into a Bewley development in Whitchurch, so we were familiar with the quality of the build, though his house was a larger type. Driving around the development, we found a similar house to the one we were interested in.”

Tracy said: “We knocked on the door and, after a brief explanation, asked the owner if we could have a look around. She graciously showed us the house, and we immediately knew the layout would suit us. We ended up reserving off-plan and sold our old house to a couple we knew would cherish it as we did.”

“We love our new home. The space is incredibly usable, and the rooms are filled with light and air. It's such a cheerful environment that I find myself singing as I walk from room to room.”

The couple was pleasantly surprised to discover that their old neighbour would also be moving in opposite them.

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Tracy said: “It was a lovely surprise. We also discovered there are many locals moving to Sovereign Gate."

Elaine Stratford, sales and marketing director at Bewley Homes, said: “It's another heartwarming story from residents at Sovereign Gate, detailing their journey to the development and the growing community."