A 74-year-old pensioner with a lifelong passion for fast cars was treated to a thrilling 120mph passenger ride around a racing circuit in a BMW M135i, after his care home's Wishing Tree initiative made his dream come true.
Supercar Experience at Dunsfold Aerodrome
Peter Kluss, who lives at Care UK's Colne View care home in Halstead, Essex, also got behind the wheel of an Audi R8 and a Porsche 911 Carrera, both fitted with specially adapted controls. The outing took place at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey, where Mr Kluss described the day as “absolutely fantastic”.
“I cannot believe I got to drive two cars that I have always wanted to drive,” he said. “Who would have thought that could happen for me? I’m so grateful for the team for making this a reality.”
Stroke and Adapted Driving
Mr Kluss was left paralysed down one side following a stroke in around 2008. Before moving into the care home, he continued driving using an adapted car. After giving up his vehicle, he missed driving greatly. When care home staff learned of his dream to steer a supercar, they arranged the experience through Care UK's Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to suggest hobbies, places to visit, or activities linked to past careers.
From Farm Mechanic to Building Trade
Growing up on a farm, Mr Kluss initially worked as a mechanic fixing tractors and combines. He joked that he soon realised he had made a bad career choice as he always had a lot of cow pats to clear from beneath, and later got involved in the building trade, building houses. He recalled always fixing cars from an early age, and it became a hobby. He has “always had a keen interest for fast cars” but said he could “never have afforded a car such as a Porsche – I was incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to drive one in my lifetime”.
Thrill of Acceleration and G-Force
Accompanied by an instructor in the two adapted cars, Mr Kluss was “more interested in the thrill of the acceleration more than a top speed”, with staff saying he “wanted to feel the G-force”. Kim Richardson, senior customer relations manager at Colne View, said: “Seeing Peter back behind the wheel and smiling throughout the experience was incredibly special for everyone involved. Driving was something he was passionate about, and we wanted to make sure he could experience that excitement again in a safe and meaningful way. The whole day was unforgettable and it was wonderful to see Peter enjoying every moment.”
Wishing Tree Initiative
The Wishing Tree programme is designed to help residents lead fulfilling lives, with past examples ranging from skiing to a fish and chip supper. Mr Kluss's supercar dream is a testament to the initiative's impact, allowing him to reconnect with a cherished pastime despite his physical limitations.
