The residents and care team at Redcot, the charity’s Haslemere-based residential care home, opened the doors of the home and welcomed family, friends and members of the local community to a wonderful, vintage 1940s Afternoon party.
“The residents had a marvellous time at the charity’s 120th Anniversary 1940s afternoon tea party,” said Jan Daly, one of our Regional Directors. “Afternoon Teas are one of the residents’ favourite things, so it was an ideal choice for a celebration to mark such a milestone anniversary.”
“They really enjoy the traditional British custom as brings some of their best-loved things together – delicious dainty sandwiches, tasty treats, a good cup of tea and the opportunity to have a good natter with each other, their family, friends and loved ones – and of course, guests from our local community.”
“The 1940s celebratory vintage afternoon tea party transported the residents and guests back to the stylish decade and the event was full of class, elegance and chicness,” added Jenny Ryder, one of Redcot’s Activities Coordinators.
“The weather was beautiful, we couldn’t have asked for better. To make sure everyone kept cool and shaded, we set-up covered tables on our pretty terrace and under a gazebo on the manicured lawn.
For those residents and guests who preferred to sit inside, we decorated The Redcot Arms, our very own pub, and turned it into a 1940s tea room, so everyone who came along was 
comfortable.
“The residents, their families, friends and members of our local community had a lovely afternoon, which not only included a delicious hand-made 1940s-themed afternoon tea served on Bone China from the era, but entertainment courtesy of the very gifted performer Emily Day, who sang and entertained the guests during the afternoon,” continued Jan.
“Emily’s songs got quite a few of the residents and guests up dancing, which was lovely to see – the dance moves and footwork were exceptional. One resident said she learnt her moves from watching Strictly Come Dancing and that she thought she deserved a 10 from Shirley and the team,” added Lucy Frisby, Redcot’s Office Manager.
“As ever, the residents never cease to impress me with their trivia knowledge,” said Jan. “One resident told me that the traditional dances for a 1940s tea dance were the Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango and Polka – and something I didn’t know – The Conga! Who knew?”
“Everyone at Redcot had the most wonderful time at the charity’s 120th Anniversary celebration. It was so nice to see old friends and meet and welcome members of our local community. The afternoon was perfect and, just like The Glen Miller Orchestra’s famous song of the era – In The Mood – everyone was in the perfect mood, with the perfect atmosphere and ambience to celebrate together and have a fantastic day,” concluded Jan.
Find out more about Redcot care home by calling 01428 644 637 or emailing redcot@fote.org.uk.