‘True gent’ repairs elderly people’s fences for free

A young Solihull fencer is helping elderly people in the community by repairing their damaged fences for free.

Jon Horne started offering the service after visiting a senior citizen who had to ‘decide whether to be warm or have a secure fence’.

He was so touched he decided to do the job for free, and now the humble 22-year-old is fundraising to maintain the scheme after being inundated with messages.

Mr Horne, who works around the West Midlands, said he has received more than 1,500 messages – 500 of which are from elderly people.

Posting on Facebook, Mr Horne said: “My company is at a size where I can give a little back, and that’s what I intend to do. All I ask is you provide me or one of my team with a cup of tea and some biscuits.”

Speaking about why he is offering the service, he added: “I had a call from an elderly lady who had three fence panels blow down in the bad weather. I went out to take a look within an hour as she was quite distressed and worried about the security at her home.

“I repaired the fence for her same day and when asking how much she owed me, I decided nothing.

“She was reluctant to let me walk away without a payment but after a short conversation with her, she explained how she struggled to keep on top of her bills but the fence repair was a must.

“I can’t believe some of the older generation are in a situation where they have to decide whether to be warm or in this case have a secure fence.

“My company is at a size where I can give a little back, and that’s what I intend to do.”

Mr Horne is now offering free fence repairs throughout the bad weather, to any senior citizens who are struggling.

So far, he has raised more than £2,000 to help fund the scheme, but stressed even without people’s donations he will still continue the service.

He said: “We would love to help everyone who has messaged us but it’s physically impossible.

“Without donations towards our costs, I am limited to the [number of] people I can help.

“Even if we don’t receive any donations, I still strive to help at least eight to 12 elderly [people] per month.”

People have been praising Mr Horne’s efforts, calling him a ‘true British gent’.

Another woman posted on his fundraising page, saying: “I wish there were more people like you in this world. Hope your generosity of spirit is repaid a thousand fold.”

For more information or to donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/midlands-fencing-amp-aggregates