Celebrating life at Barchester

What a lovely day our residents enjoyed a relaxing boat trip along the beautiful Norfolk Broads! 
There was plenty to see and enjoy as we gently cruised along the waterways, taking in the beautiful scenery, enjoying the fresh air and, of course, having lots of lovely conversations and laughter along the way. 

We were delighted to be joined by Sylvie’s family for the day, making the trip even more special. It was wonderful to spend time together, share the experience and create happy memories as a group. 
We were also lucky enough to spot some wonderful wildlife, including graceful swans and elegant herons, which made the trip even more memorable. It was such a joy watching everyone taking in the sights and enjoying a peaceful day surrounded by nature. 

Days like these create such wonderful memories, and we’re already looking forward to our next adventure!

We had a fantastic time at Hickathrift House hosting our Macmillan Coffee Morning! There was plenty of coffee, cake, laughter and lovely company as our residents, families, community members and staff came together to support such a wonderful cause. 

Our coffee information booklets gave everyone the chance to find out more about the history of coffee, while our cupcake quiz brought out a little bit of friendly competition! A huge thank you to all our wonderful residents, families and people from the community who joined us and helped make the morning so special. Your support and generosity are truly appreciated. 

And a big shout out to our amazing Hickathrift House staff team for all their hard work, setting up and keeping the coffee flowing! 

We certainly proved that coffee + cake + great company = a brilliant morning!        

Blessed with the weather and armed with a picnic, residents of Cedars Bourne had a fantastic day at Sacrewell Farm. “So much to see and enjoy” – said resident Arthur Combridge. Arthur was a farmer and really enjoyed the Farm Machinery through the years. Arthur explained to the rest of the group what each piece of equipment was for and how they worked, and everybody admired the beautiful old waggons that had been restored in the barn.   

The spot down by the mill pond, resident Doreen Robinson said, was "just a picture postcard!" It was the first time the Cedars had taken a trip to Sacrewell Farm, but everyone agreed it was such a wonderfully stimulating, memory-making experience that they will certainly visit again.

Residents celebrated in style last night as they listened to classical pieces and songs from the musicals.
Alan Jackson - Vintage Singer did The Cedars proud, with a set including “Bring Him Home” from Les Misérables and “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific, before a rousing finale of “Jerusalem” and “Land of Hope and Glory." Everybody in the room joined in with the singing and in true Prom tradition waved flags, wore hats and sipped Prosecco.

A heart-warming and joyous time was had by all the residents, their families and friends, staff and some of the local community.  

A fantastic day out in the sunshine on Bourne Family Fun Day, and it made resident Ann Spratt’s birthday even more special . . ." I shouldn't forget this birthday in a hurry."  

Residents met friends and family along the way, including Leo the Lion, two of the dogs, Kupo and Dolly, who won 1st and 3rd in the pet competition, watched local children performing their dance routines and enjoyed listening to a singer. 

Residents had refreshments from a pop-up bar, and were thrilled to see two very familiar faces smiling back at them, as they were two of the Cedars' wonderful volunteers. And resident Barbara Coleman said, "Isn’t it so lovely to see so many families here enjoying themselves? Just lovely! I remember going on a carousel when I was a little girl." Stopping on the way home at The Shake Vault for delicious artisan ice cream, watching the cricket sat on the Abbey Lawns.        

Residents recently set sail for a swashbuckling afternoon of fun at our Pirate-Themed Music Event. With plenty of dressing up, laughter, and entertainment, everyone embraced their inner pirate for the occasion. The event featured a series of lively entertainment from Mini Concerts, where residents joined in with much-loved sea shanties and nautical songs. There was plenty of singing, clapping, and smiling as everyone came together to enjoy the music and festive atmosphere.

The afternoon was a fantastic success, bringing residents together for a memorable celebration filled with fun, friendship, and a touch of pirate spirit. 

Residents recently enjoyed a wonderful ceramics workshop with Geraldine, giving them the opportunity to get creative and try something new. During the session, residents carefully crafted beautiful flower coasters, using their imagination and artistic skills to create unique designs. The ladies thoroughly enjoyed the experience and were incredibly proud of their creations. 

Regular creative activities such as these provide residents with the chance to express themselves, learn new skills, and enjoy time together in a relaxed and social setting.     

Everyone is now looking forward to receiving their finished pieces back soon and seeing the final results of their hard work.

We were incredibly inspired, motivated and uplifted by a wonderful talk from Guide Dogs for the Blind.
We loved hearing all about her incredible life and journey, learning more about the amazing work of Guide Dogs, and hearing stories about all the adorable animal companions who have been part of her life over the years. 

It was such a wholesome and inspiring afternoon, filled with fascinating stories, plenty of smiles and lots of wonderful conversations afterwards. A huge thank you for sharing your journey with us!   

Residents enjoyed a wonderful Afternoon at the Opera with a live performance from Gregory Steward. His beautiful selection of operatic favourites delighted residents, who spent the afternoon singing along and enjoying the music. To make the occasion even more special, residents were treated to Prosecco and fresh strawberries, creating a relaxing and elegant atmosphere.    

It was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon that brought smiles, conversation, and plenty of happy memories.