GIBRALTAR Nursing Home in Monmouth recently hosted its annual Country and Western Festival, bringing together family members (residents), relatives, team members, their families and friends of the home for an afternoon of music, food and community.

The event raised more than £450, with all the proceedings going back to COGS to help fund future events and experiences at the home.

Among the visitors were relatives whose loved ones had previously lived at the home and have sadly passed away. Many are still familiar faces, often calling in for a cup of tea, a chat with the team or to spend time with family members they came to know through the home.

Organised by the home’s COGS committee (Creating Occupation in Gibraltar to Support Social Skills), with support from team members across the home, the festival transformed the home’s car park into a lively country and western scene.

Decorations, gazebos, stalls, hay bales and themed photo opportunities created the setting, alongside a barbeque, live singer and a special pony experience provided by Pony Patrol.

There was plenty to explore throughout the afternoon, with face painting enjoyed by children and adults alike, temporary tattoos, henna body art, bric-a-brac, a soft toy stall and a selection of sweet treats freshly made by the home’s kitchen team.

A raffle also helped helped raise funds, with a hamper filled with generous donations from local businesses, including wine, books, puzzles, purses and bags.

Like many events, the day came with a few unexpected challenges. Another planned pony experience fell through at short notice and a delivery of hay bales was cancelled. Fortunatly Monmouthshire businesses stepped in to help, ensuring the day could go ahead as planned.

Family members who wanted to take part were supported to come outside throughout the afternoon in smaller groups from each household, helping to keep the atmosphe relaxed and allowing everyone time to enjoy the festivities at their own pace. The ice creams from the ‘Cone Ranger’ stand quickly became a favourite.

One family member, Gail agreed to come down after a little gentle encouragement. Usually preferring to spend time in her own space, she smiled as she stroked the ponies, listened to the live music and finished the afternoon with an ice cream in the flavour she had chosen.

For another family member Phyllis, the ponies stirred a lifetime of of memories. Having spent many years showing horses, she had always had a deep affection for animals and fondly recalls meeting Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, King Charles II and Princess Anne at a horse show.

As the ponies were being loaded back into the horsebox, Phyllis made sure to say goodbye before chatting with their owners, reminiscing about her own experiences showing horses. The home hopes to invite Pony Patrol back for a visit indoors.

The festival was equally memorable for the younger visitors. One team members’ granddaughter, Neveah had her face painted twice and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the stalls and activities. The following day she told her mum ‘I want to go to Nanny’s work again today!.”

Home Manager Verity Walmsley, said: “It was such a special day and so lovely to see so many familiar faces. We had relatives coming up to thank us for organising such a wonderful event, and hearing their kind words meant so much.”