PREPARATIONS for a welcome return home were in full swing as the former deputy headteacher of John of Gaunt School visited his newly adapted house after spending three months in hospital.

John Croft, 69, was welcomed back to his home in Brokerswood for a visit on Monday. He suffered a major stroke in August, and has been recovering in the RUH and Chippenham Community Hospital ever since.

He is now due to be discharged from hospital and is hoping to return home in the next few days.

Family, friends and neighbours have rallied round to help Mr Croft and his wife, Rosemary, through the last few months.

Their lawn has been mown, dog cared for, shopping done, wood store filled, meals provided and house tidied.

In hospital, Mr Croft who worked at the school from 1988 to 1996 and also taught geography, was visited each evening by a rota of caring friends. They kept him abreast of news from home and helped to keep his spirits high through his recovery.

Mrs Croft, 64, said: “The work of the builders and the rallying round from our friends has been invaluable.

“The builders have worked late into the night and some of the staff we recognised as former pupils which was lovely.

“The renovations will really help John in his ongoing recovery.”

Builders WG Dell, from Trowbridge, have been working to get Mr Croft’s home ready for his return, installing ramps and other equipment to accommodate his wheelchair.

Company director Ricky Dell said: “We hope that our efforts enable Mr and Mrs Croft to continue living in their lovely home.”