Activities at The Cedars Bourne Care Home

We enjoyed a talk about Vintage Advertising Displays this week when they welcomed local antiques expert Keith, who showcased a display of original advertising figures and models from the 1940’s to the 1960’s.

Part four of his series of talks focused on a stunning Beswick Dulux Dog from 1961; a giant boot from Caterpillar shoes- a lovely example of advertising for their best-selling boot and a working engine display from ESSO, that moved with the turn of a hand crank. Ann was particularly thrilled to see a Wolsey display- she said ‘my husband always wore Wolsey socks!’

Residents were then invited to ask questions and to have a closer look at the display pieces. Barbara loved the ice bucket; but it was the Buchanan’s dogs that caught the most attention! Sheila said ‘I enjoyed every minute!’ whist Romy commented that the talk was ‘fascinating’. 

Staff and residents joined fellow keen quizzers from over 260 Barchester care homes and hospitals across the whole of the UK, including Wales, Scotland, Jersey and the Isle of Wight, to put their collective general knowledge to the test.

The first Barchester Big Quiz of the Year took place on 28^th January 2026 when the Cedars got super competitive and took on its sister homes from all over the country to find out which Barchester home or hospital had the best quizzers.  From historical humdingers and musical musings to pictorial puzzlers and connective conundrums, the homes battled it out to find out who would prevail.

Vocalist Nick Glover delivered an amazing 50s, 60s and 70s classic set this month, enjoyed by all our residents, staff and visitors. The atmosphere was fantastic in the room, really lifting our spirits from the gloomy day outside. It put a smile on all our faces! Volunteer Jessica said, "That's made my day, I shall always remember Elizabeth's face lighting up and dancing with her."

Thank you so much to the amazing staff and children of Bourne Abbey C of E Primary Academy for visiting us and bringing some extra Christmas cheer. The children were marvellous at helping to make beautiful Christingles to keep, and we made some new friends too. 

Joy said 'it’s been lovely' whilst Romy commented that she 'loved every minute'. We are really looking forward to seeing them again in the New Year.   

Our residents love our mixed arts and craft groups: we have been busy preparing for Christmas this month with a range of crafts designed for all; including making hanging tree decorations, colouring Christmas Cards and planning our displays throughout the home.

Inclusive and accessible arts and crafts are always available in the home, both in groups and from our busy board opposite the dining room – so help yourselves to some fun activities to enjoy with your loved ones.     

Staff and residents welcomed in the Year of the Horse with a day of celebrations and activities.

Inspired by Chinese history, culture and cuisine, fortune cookies were exchanged and the home was decorated with dancing dragons, good luck charms and hanging red lanterns. Residents learnt all about the traditions and superstitions of Chinese New Year. Barchester Chef, Julie Gelsthorpe, designed an oriental feast for lunch and supper and residents expressed how wonderful it was to try something different.

Residents and colleagues enjoyed a traditional Burns Night meal with beautiful Scottish music from harpist John Dalton this week. 

Staff and residents at the home enjoyed a delicious meal to mark the Scottish institution, including giving the time-honoured address to the ‘Great chieftain O’ the pudding race’ – the haggis.

 

We celebrated the New Year in style here at The Cedars to welcome in 2026!

The celebrations started with a swing as we were entertained by the incredible music of acoustic duo 'Side by Side'. Dave played the guitar with wonderful skill, whilst Meghan Bryson's vocals were breathtaking. From Dolly Parton, through Joanie Mitchell to Elvis and Adele, we were treated to a musical journey that culminated in a rendition of Auld Lang Syne. Matt said they were 'brilliant' and our own Megan called out 'please come again' when they finished. We all agree!  

Residents and guests enjoyed a very special afternoon of music for 'Go Carolling Day' with a live music performance that took place at the home. 

Local group, Bourne Treble Makers, performed a selection of Christmas songs and traditional carols; as well as inviting residents to sing along to some of their favourites! The melodies were beautiful, and residents were in awe of the harmonies achieved by the very talented group.

Our residents and staff had a joy-filled morning with our Cedar Sprouts. Intergenerational activities are so good for us all, promoting friendship, supporting our community, improving confidence and sparking memories. 

We are already very excited for the next group, on Tuesday 2nd December at 11am.   

Residents and guests enjoyed a live music performance that took place at the home. Local singer Jeremy performed a selection of classic hits including ‘The Story of My Life’, ‘You Are My Sunshine’ and ‘Magic Moments’ to a full room- there was standing space only!

Residents joined in with the singing, and clapped along as the band performed their finale song ‘Happiness’, and the smiles reflected the song perfectly. Dorothy requested Jim Reeves, and was treated to not one but two of his most popular tunes; and Dr McGregor was very happy singing along to one of his favourites- ‘True Love’. 

We are thrilled that we now have our very own minibus! 

We will continue to do the weekly minibus trips, and are planning some day trips for our residents as well: the top destinations requested are to Twycross Zoo and to the beach. If you would like to join your loved one on any of our trips, please speak to the activity team – the more, the merrier!   

Alan Jackson was dressed in his finest, singing us our favourite Christmas Classics for the annual party this year. The Rowan Dining room was decorated for a feast of salmon fillet or roast lamb with roasted vegetables, with crackers, individual favours and warmed mulled wine.  We played a round of Christmas's "Guess Who" with a lot of frivolity and finished with a rendition of a favourite carol from last night – Away In A Manger. 

It is so much fun to see everybody, residents, staff, family and visitors coming together, dressed in their Christmas best!

We had a treat as we launched our Remembrance Day activities with one of our residents' favourite vocalists, Nikki Downes. It's a wonderful thing when our performers know our residents and personalise their shows for them. Nikki sang all our favourite vintage tunes, getting everyone singing, swaying and creating a lovely warm atmosphere.

As one resident left, she said, "that lady's smile lights up the room, and she chooses songs we can all sing along to. Thank you so much for such a lovely afternoon."  

Residents and staff got into the spirit of things by creating Halloween decorations and decorating the home, holding a Monster Halloween Prize Bingo, followed by a themed Halloween Party serving Shadowy Spirits and Ghoulish Cocktails, and Familiar Sweety Treats. 

Popular entertainer and vocalist, Alan Jackson in full Zombie mode treated us to a medley of spellbinding songs.