Care home residents and supporters have taken centre stage at a Christmas tree festival after months of creative work and rehearsals.
The choir from Avon Reach in Mudeford performed carols and seasonal songs at Highcliffe Castle, rounding off a programme of activities that included designing handmade decorations for a Christmas tree displayed alongside contributions from local organisations and community groups.
Singing in the castle’s Great Hall, the group was led by Colten Care’s Music and Arts Partner Fiona Pritchard, with visitors stopping to listen and join in as the performance took place among the decorated trees and beneath the hall’s stained glass window.
Fiona Pritchard said the choir received a warm welcome and enjoyed the acoustics of the space, adding that the set included traditional carols and festive favourites, with sleigh bells used to accompany one song.
Residents described the experience as uplifting, with Ted Griffin saying it was something he had never done before and Brenda Edwards saying she would happily take part again.
In the lead up to the event, residents created seaside inspired decorations using shells and other materials, naming their tree Shells and Bells, before visiting the castle together to dress it ready for public display.
Festive activities at Avon Reach also included a multi generational party with local families and volunteers, where residents and children sang together and gifts were handed out during the celebration.
Share us with your friends on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.