At The Lawn, our Alton-based residential care home, residents, their families, the local community and care team had a fun-filled day at its annual community Summer Fun Extravaganza.
The day was full of sunshine and was filled with laughter from start to finish. “The residents enjoyed the day so much,” said Emma Cranstone, the Activities Coordinator at The Lawn. “They totally loved the thrill of the lively games and winning playful prizes. We tried to make sure the day had a ‘Fair and Festival’ atmosphere which I think we achieved, as the residents got involved with all the merriments, chatted to the guests and had a wonderful time.”
The Lawn’s community spectacular had a vast array of activities and performances taking place throughout the day. Performances included The Knickerbocker Glory Appalachian Dancers and their live band, and music from Cajun Boogaloo – who got everyone dancing.
“It was a day where time stood still, and all that mattered was the fun the residents and our guests had and the memories we made,” said Alina Gutu, the Registered Manager at The Lawn.
“I really enjoyed the fair, I never imagined it would be that big, we had lots of stalls and fantastic entertainment. I loved being part of the entertainment, as I was our very own Town Cryer – I thoroughly enjoyed it, it was something completely different to anything I’ve ever done before. I’m feeling very emotional about the day as it was fantastic and was very lucky to be part of thanks to Emma,” said resident, Alan Newman.
Alongside the entertainment, there were a wide range of competitions and games for everyone to enjoy, plus a . The Soak The Management was a great hit at the fair. “This was one of my highlights,” added Emma. “Getting soaked in the heat was nice and refreshing.”
“The day was brilliant. My family came and they said it was a great day that they enjoyed it immensely. The best and funniest bit for me was Soak The Management. I threw wet sponges at Emma, she is such a good sport, she was very brave. Never have I met such a hard-working woman in my life, she is amazing,” continued resident, Alan Bourne.
“The Summer Fun Fair was a fantastic day, which everyone who came along thoroughly enjoyed. The delicious food and BBQ received rave reviews, the performances were amazing and the atmosphere was wonderfully relaxed,” added Alina.
“Although the event took a lot of time and energy to organise, it was definitely worth it to see the residents’ happy faces and to hear the positive feedback from both stall holders and visitors. I couldn’t have done it without the help of the staff, relatives, and my family, who generously offered to run stalls. The residents are already talking about next year’s event – so I’d better get my planning hat on soon,” concluded Emma.
Find out more about The Lawn care home by calling 03305 550 378 or emailing enquiries@fote.org.uk.