GIBRALTAR Nursing Home hosted their own Christmas market on the weekend.

The Christmas market had over 60 people who attended, and they managed to raise over £650 for the home’s COGS committee (Creating Occupation in Gibraltar and Supporting Social Skills.)

Due to the recent flooding in Monmouth, the nursing home were unsure to put the event on but they felt that so much hard work had gone into preparing the event, family members (the term they use for residents) and their relatives and friends were looking forward to the day, and the opportunity meant that it could bring the community together lifting spirits of those in the area.

Guests arrived entering the Gingerbread arch, and we were able to try homemade mice pies and mulled wine. Navigating their way through the home, they were able to see Santa’s Grotto and were led to stalls set up around the restaurant and the Pillars Restaurant.

It was a great community effort as team members dressed up as elves, Mrs. Clause and a snowman, running the stalls selling homemade items like panted clay decorations created by the family members living at the home, hand crafted Christmas tree displays and painted terracotta pots.

Along with the stalls, they had chicken and stuffing rolls, waffles with different toppings including Cadbury and mint Aero. One relative set up his own homemade fudge stall and raised £90.

99-year-old resident Leah also helped greet people on the day and welcomed them to the event, selling raffle tickets on the door.

The atmosphere of music echoed through the building as live performer Christine provided carols and music; the community were able to dance and sing along. There were activities for children to enjoy as well including henna tattoos and ring toss games.

The money raised from the event is supporting the COGS committee’s ongoing work to plan activities which encourage wellbeing, purpose and social connection for family members to enjoy. Items which were left over from the stalls have been displayed in reception for visitors to purchase, which will add to the fundraising total.

Home Manager, Verity Walmsley, said: “It was a fantastic day filled with so much love, the group of volunteers that work so hard year after year to pull this day off really do a fantastic job.

“I am lucky to have such a fantastic team by my side who supports me in making these events happen.

“My favourite part about the day was just standing back and taking it all in, watching the smiles on people’s faces, kids playing in the grotto and carols being sung. It really was a perfect festive celebration.”