Residents, families and staff from Colten Care’s Avon Reach residential care home in Mudeford sprinkled a little bit of magic on this year’s Christchurch Carnival with a wonderful Alice In Wonderland theme.
The home’s minibus was beautifully decorated for the occasion, creating a colourful and eye catching Wonderland on Wheels.
Residents and staff embraced the fun dressing up as much-loved characters, including Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter.
A special highlight of the day was when resident Shirley Somerton and Home Manager Ruth Wildman, dressed as the Queen Of Hearts, chose a lucky winner from the crowd to receive a basket full of treats to take home and enjoy.
Ruth said: “The celebrations were made even more special as relatives and children joined us, sharing in the excitement, laughter and carnival atmosphere.
“It was fantastic to see residents enjoying such a wonderful day alongside their loved ones and the wider Christchurch community.
“With colourful costumes, a beautifully decorated minibus and plenty of smiles, Avon Reach certainly brought a touch of Wonderland magic to the carnival.”
Shirley added: “It was lovely to be part of the carnival again this year. The staff all looked amazing in their costumes “
Peter Doyle, Colten Care’s Operations Manager for the New Forest cluster, said: “It was a joy to see the residents and the community of Christchurch come together and celebrate the town – it was also a lot of fun!”
Jane Spark, daughter of resident Doreen Walls, added: “It was a special day where me and my mum had the chance to spend a lovely day out together.”
Christchurch Carnival, one of the south’s oldest community festivals, has been entertaining the community and fund raising for good causes for more than 115 years.
Founded more than 45 years ago, multi award-winning Colten Care owns and operates 21 care homes in Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex.
