Celebrating life at Barchester

On Tuesday evening we had the pleasure of welcoming the 17th St Andrews Cub Group and their leaders  for a social and reminiscing evening. Some of the Cubs had brought along items from home to show the residents and our residents had a selection of things to show the Cubs from their earlier years.

One leader in particular was of great interest to the residents and that was Daniel who is a Kings Scout and has been lucky enough to meet the King twice, and both Prince William and Edward, he has also been a guard of honour at the Cenotaph.
However during the evening visit with our residents he was lucky enough to get to chat to our newly appointed Resident Ambassador Alice.

Both the Cubs and our residents had a very enjoyable evening and we look forward to welcoming them again soon

Did you know we organise regular meetings with residents and their relatives to keep everyone updated and make sure their views and preferences are heard? 

The first meeting of 2026 was well attended and very productive; full of positivity and fresh ideas for the year ahead. Lead by manager Joanna, supported by all heads of department we took the opportunity to welcome Alice as our new Resident Ambassador.
Our hospitality team laid on a little winter warmer tipple and cheese to finish the social gathering in style, which went down very well!

We can’t wait to see you in our next meeting on 24th February from 2.30pm – Family & Friends welcome.

Today we celebrated ‘Buddy Holly Day’ with the amazing Tony Meacock who, along with his guitar and sensational singing took us right back to the 50s!

‘Charles Hardin Holley, or Buddy Holly as he was better known, died tragically in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa, aged just 22 along with fellow musicians, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson.  He was a pioneering singer-songwriter, hailed as one of the greats of 1950’s American rock & roll, despite his short career.’

Tony did Buddy proud, and we loved every minute!

Resident; Jean loves it when the students from Hardenhuish School visit to chat. Sophie and Emily were a delight.  This sort of interaction is made possible through our close links with local schools, colleges and nurseries. Intergenerational activities are a cornerstone of our life enrichment program. 

This morning our lovely residents; Veronica, Sheila and Jane gathered together with Anita to create some beautiful fresh flower displays in preparation for tomorrows Open Day.

They had a lovely time choosing which colourful bloom to place in a variety of containers. The sense of achievement in making something so beautiful and fragrant puts a smile on everyone’s face. Thank you, ladies, you all did a fabulous job. 

Did you know we have regular live events at our home? Recently one of our favourites; Tickled Pink Productions performed their ‘Cinderella’ panto for our residents. 

‘When you wish upon a star anything is possible, even with two horrible step sisters! With the help of the Fairy Godmother Cinderella shall go to the ball and meet her handsome, thigh slapping Prince Charming.

Scripted for all ages and abilities to enjoy, and performed in the comfort of our home the pantomime was a roaring success. Our memory lane residents were fully emersed in the story, with the room full or laughter, toe -tapping, tambourine jangling and song.

Residents enjoyed a morning of classic show tunes and ballroom dancing with pro-dancer, Simon.  A nostalgic session of all our favourite tunes from back in the day, with plenty of toe-tapping, singing along and doing the twist!