Celebrating life at Barchester

Our residents and colleagues had a wonderful opportunity to learn about and explore Romanian culture. Our staff members Anamaria, Oana, and Maggie shared some lovely insights into their heritage, bringing along traditional foods, handmade pottery, and beautiful clothing to help us experience a little piece of Romania. Our residents enjoyed getting to know our staff and their background and there were many questions asked.    

We marked the 81st anniversary of Victory in Europe Day in style by throwing a 1940s afternoon tea party to remember.  The home was decorated in red, white and blue and residents and staff dressed up in their 1940s-inspired glad rags and enjoyed an afternoon of big band music and dancing.  Chef Adriana whipped up a delicious Victoria sponge cake and decorated it beautifully.

Residents sat in the garden which was decorated with bunting as they enjoyed a slice of cake, hot drink whilst John a harpist came and played for everyone.

Audrey, resident at Wood Grange said: “I remember all the family gathering around the radio to listen to Churchill’s speech telling us the war was over, it still gives me goosebumps now, such an important date.  It was wonderful to reminisce and to celebrate with all the staff and residents here, we’ve all had such fun and lots of cake!”

Thistle Hill Care Home in Knaresborough marked the 81st anniversary of Victory in Europe Day in style by throwing a 1940s afternoon tea party to remember.  The home was decorated in red, white and blue and residents and staff dressed up in their 1940s-inspired glad rags and enjoyed an afternoon of big band music and dancing.

Head chef Ewalina whipped up a delicious selection of freshly-baked biscuits, sandwiches, cakes and pastries for the occasion, all washed down with pots of tea and a celebratory glass of fizz to mark the occasion.

Residents and Staff were in awe of the majestic birds of prey that came to visit the home. Along with their trainers from Rutland Outdoor Pursuits, residents watched a stunning display of flying and feeding from Storm the Barn Owl, Nancy the Tawny Owl, Little Frankie the African Scots Owl and Moaning Myrtle the Harris Hawk; before having a chance to hold the beautiful birds. We also learnt some fascinating facts, including that the USA native Harris Hawk has all round vision- which is where we get the phrase ‘Hawk Eyed’; and that Barn Owls were call Ghost Owls in medieval England due to their silent flight. 

Resident Sheila said ‘It’s hard to believe we are so close when they are flying!’, whilst Barbara commented that ‘You could really feel the wind! If I’d’ave washed my hair she’d of dried it for us’!

Our residents enjoyed a wonderful art therapy session.

There’s something truly special about watching creativity come to life—whether it’s through painting, drawing, or simply exploring colours and textures. The room was filled with smiles, laughter, and a real sense of calm as everyone expressed themselves in their own unique way.

Art therapy isn’t just about making something beautiful; it’s about connection, relaxation, and giving our residents a chance to share their stories without words. 

We’re so proud of the amazing artwork created  and even more grateful for the joy it brought to everyone involved.