The garden of a Dorset dementia care home was transformed into a colourful sensory trail complete with wind chimes and ribbons as guests enjoyed a summer barbecue party.
Residents at Colten Care’s The Aldbury in Poole played a key role in the celebration by decorating bunting with pressed flowers from the garden, creating table displays of freshly cut blooms and making handmade lavender sachets for sale in aid of the home’s nominated charity this year, Friends of the Dolphin.
On the invite list for the party were families, friends and community contacts who came together in the sunshine.
As well as a children’s activity area with bubbles and sensory scavenger hunt, there was a home-grown herb plant sale and an opportunity to meet and pet two visiting ponies, Sammy and Twinkletoes.
With a soundtrack from entertainer Steve Whaley, a conga line formed with dancers including residents Maggie Hiscock, Heather Mee and Brian Hayles and Companions Melissa Siat and Pauline Gauden.
Resident Terry Pattison said: “It was a day to enjoy for all who attended.”
Home Manager Liliana Lazaroiu praised the teamwork behind the day, saying: “It was well organised and everyone pulled together and turned it into a lovely event.”
The Douch Family Knit & Natter Group donated crocheted octopuses to support the charity stall, helping towards the £200 raised overall.
Friends of the Dolphin is the charity behind a pleasure craft that provides free boat trips around Poole harbour for disabled people.
