Staff at Hickathrift House Care Home in Marshland St James brought Royal Ascot to residents with hobby horse racing and pretend bets

Care home residents and staff got together to watch the races while celebrating in true Royal Ascot fashion.

Residents and staff at Hickathrift House Care Home in Marshland St James dressed to impress, donned their newly made hats, studied the form, and had their bets at the ready for Royal Ascot.

Residents and staff enjoyed a glass of fizz, delicious refreshments, and taking part in a hobby horse race while placing pretend bets.

Residents also loved reminiscing about the various races they have watched over the years with a themed sensory box, as well as making their most eccentric hats in the weekly craft club.

Paula Melerski, general manager at the home, said: “We have had a fantastic time celebrating Royal Ascot, it is such a great event to watch and it is wonderful to see the crowds in all their finery.

“We all had a little flutter between ourselves even though none of us has much of a clue about odds or form.”

Betty, a resident at the home, said: “I love Royal Ascot and seeing the Royals, the amazing hats and all the fantastic outfits. I have not got a clue about horse racing; I just choose the colours I like best.”

The care homes' varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental, and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.