TO MARK Ladies’ Day at Royal Ascot, family members (residents) and team members at Gibraltar Nursing Home in Monmouth came together for an afternoon of dressing up, laughter and treats in the home’s Pillars Restaurant.

The tables were set with cakes, savoury treats and glasses of Nozecco,, while Royal Ascot played on the television at the front of the room. The restaurant had filled with bright colours, patterned dresses and fascinators, with many taking the chance to dress up for the occasion and enjoy the feeling of getting ready for something special.

For some, getting ready for an occasion, whether that means choosing an outfit, fixing their hair or adding jewellery, can reconnect them with familiar routines from earlier life. These moments can still hold meaning, helping to support confidence, identity and pride in personal appearance.

Team members joined too, arriving in colourful dresses and oversized hats and hair accessories. There were plenty of laughs throughout the afternoon, especially when the music started. Old favourites had some family members on their feet dancing while others joined in from their chairs.

Barbara was particularly amused watching team member Bridget’s dance moves and couldn't stop laughing.

Home Manager Verity Walmsley said: “It was lovely to see so many dressed up and looking colourful. It wasn’t so much about the races but more about making our ladies feel special and celebrated and of course, having a sing and dance is always good fun.”

The event is widely celebrated, and is classed as one of the most fashionable days of the week where people can wear high fashion outfits and accessories. It used to be that on Ladies’ Day women were given free or discounted tickets but now its where fashion and horse racing meet, forming a popular event for many.