A ‘Mad Hatters’ garden tea party prompted smiles all round as a Poundbury residential and nursing home celebrated Care Home Open Day.
In a friendly competition, residents at Colten Care’s Castle View home donned a range of colourful hats with Joyce Garton declared the winner.
She was presented with a prize bottle of sparkling wine by special guests the Mayor and Mayoress of Dorchester, Councillor Robin and Mrs Val Potter.
Stalls and a raffle helped the event raise more than £300 for the Dorset-based Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.
Care Home Open Day is an annual community-focused initiative designed to encourage more people to visit care homes in their neighbourhoods.
Dena Bulman, Activities Organiser at Castle View, said: “Lots of people took the chance to come in and meet staff and residents.
“Visitors are often surprised by the vibrant, happy environment they can find in a care home.
“As well as providing lots of fun, Care Home Open Day is a great way to showcase the excellent services on offer and the fantastic work that goes on in care homes day in, day out.”
Colten Care also marked the Open Day with an Ascot-themed tea party at Newstone House in Sturminster Newton and a Giant Scrabble challenge at Whitecliffe House in Blandford Forum.
The family-owned provider runs 11 care homes in Dorset with services spanning residential, short-stay, nursing and dementia care.
