Rain doesn’t dampen spirits at Ambleside’s street party for the Queen

Home news

Jun 17, 2016

Although persistent rain put the dampers on plans for Ambleside’s al fresco activities to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday, nothing could dampen the spirit of the care team whose ‘keep calm and carry on’ attitude ensured that residents, relatives and other guests could enjoy the day by bringing the patriotic street party indoors.

Residents were delighted by ‘Tickle’ the miniature Shetland pony who was perfectly content indoors being patted by residents and being fed the occasional carror. ‘Tickle’ helped bring back some lovely memories for the residents, many of who shared stories of owning farms, keeping horses and going riding. Rob, one of the residents from the dementia suites looked in his element leading ‘Tickle’ on a parade up and down the corridor.

Residents, families and friends were also able to make and decorate their own crowns to wear and visit the refreshment stands in reception where Pimm’s, milkshakes and strawberries and cream were on offer.

Catering and hosting colleagues used their initiative to feed the throng as rain thwarted plans for a garden barbecue.  Burgers, chicken drumsticks and hot pork baps were served from hot trollies together with home-made potato salad and coleslaw.

After lunch, party-goers were entertained by Val of Champagne Enterprises who served up songs spanning decades whilst residents sang along and played percussion instruments. Next came ‘The Poppy Sisters’ with their 1940s singing and style of dress which enthralled the audience.

The day after the event one relative commented, “I thought the care team did a terrific job on Sunday! The residents looked happy and it was lovely to see mum and dad enjoying the entertainment”.

Dawn Leaver, home manager said “A big thank you to the care team at Ambleside who worked extra hard to support our lovely residents to take part in the day, whilst looking after the needs of residents who were unable to do so. Also, a huge thank you to head chef Lisa Morris, host Will Mansell and hostess Hayley May, Angie and Jason from the activities team and customer relations manager Karen Laydon and all of the other Ambleside staff who worked so hard to make the day happen.”