Godden Lodge Care Home, run by HC-One and located in Benfleet, Essex, was delighted to welcome MP for Castle Point, Dame Rebecca Harris, to its annual Summer Fete on Saturday 16th August 2025. The event brought together residents, their families, colleagues, and members of the local community for a day of celebration and fun.
Residents and colleagues enjoyed the opportunity to meet Dame Rebecca Harris, who spent time chatting with them about life at Godden Lodge and the home’s role as a key part of the Benfleet community.
The home was festively decorated with bright summer-themed adornments to create a welcoming atmosphere. Highlights of the fete included T Cribbs & Sons Funeral Directors bringing in donkey sisters for people to say hello to, pet therapy dogs, bric-a-brac stalls, live singers, a vintage car display, and traditional funfair games such as hook-a-duck and pick-a-bottle. Residents had also requested a “preloved pop-up shop” to recreate the experience of browsing charity shops, which proved a popular addition.
A seaside theme was present at the home as bucket and spades, cut out boards and photo props delivered a nostalgic carnival atmosphere to the event. Special guest Dame Rebecca Harris joined in the fun, purchasing items from the preloved stall and speaking warmly with residents and visitors. Local community figure John Wilson from the Salvation Army added yet another fun activity to the home, setting up an exhilarating archery range for residents and guests to enjoy.
Lewis Chester, Home Manager at Godden Lodge Care Home, said:
“It was a truly special day filled with laughter, music, and togetherness, and it meant so much to our residents and their families to share it with the wider community. Rebecca’s kind words and genuine interest in our home made the occasion even more memorable, and we are so grateful to everyone who came along to make the day such a success.”
MP for Castle Point, Dame Rebecca Harris, commented:
“It was great to stop by the Godden Lodge open day and community fayre. I am pleased to see everyone having a great time. The archery was particularly good fun!”