Residents, staff, families and friends at Hambleton Grange Care Home in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, turned back the clock in spectacular style as they hosted their very own fashion event to celebrate London Fashion Week.
Not ones to follow the crowd, the team at Hambleton Grange decided to mark the famous fashion week with a musical afternoon inviting guests to dress in outfits inspired by their favourite decade. The result was a catwalk filled with colour, glamour and plenty of personality.
The event was made even more special as resident Sheila Thornton, a former fashion model, took to the catwalk looking radiant in a long spotted evening gown, complete with a short bolero mohair jacket and sparkling black kitten heels.
Men and women strutted their stuff in pairs along the catwalk while Elaine Snowden, Lifestyle Manager, hosted the event in her elegant 1920s-inspired outfit. Each participant was asked which decade they were representing, along with their ambitions and reasons for taking part.
Highlights included Lindsey Ashby in her vibrant 1970s ensemble, entering with resident Norman Anderson in his stylish suit. When asked her ambition, Lindsey answered in true beauty pageant style: “World peace.”
Resident Mavis McDermott, demure and divine in a pale duck egg blue full-length gown, was determined to rise from her wheelchair and walk the catwalk. Unit Manager Jo Robinson was almost unrecognisable with her dramatic 1980s big hair, sharing that her ambition was simply “to live long.”
Although Home Manager Sandra Anderson had prepared her fabulous 1950s outfit, she was unfortunately called away at the last minute and missed the event. She said:
“What a great afternoon – I’m so sorry I missed it. We may need to do it again!”
After much anticipation, the audience cast their votes for their favourite. In an overwhelming result, Emma Ronan – one of the home’s carers – was crowned Miss Hambleton Grange. Dressed in a bold and colourful 1980s outfit that perfectly matched her vibrant personality, Emma said she simply “wanted to have fun.” Loved by residents and colleagues alike, she was presented with a sash to mark her well-deserved win.
Following the exciting announcement, the celebrations continued with musical entertainment from across the decades and singing from Rebekan Austin, rounding off a truly splendid afternoon.
Elaine Snowden, Lifestyle Manager, said:
“It was a great afternoon and it was wonderful to see so many people taking part.”
Dawn Parker-Eland, Carer, added that the event brought smiles to everyone involved and showcased the creativity and spirit that makes Hambleton Grange so special.
The success of the event means the team may well be dusting off their decade-inspired outfits again very soon.
Hambleton Grange Care Home is currently offering an introductory offer for new residents, with four weeks of care for the price of three, providing families with an opportunity to experience the high-quality, person-centred care on offer at the home.
For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact Hambleton Grange Care Home in Thirsk, North Yorkshire:
Hambleton Grange - Care Home in Thirsk, North Yorkshire | HC One.