TWO County Durham care homes opened their doors for an action-packed day of festive fun yesterday (Saturday, December 7).

Rose Lodge care home and Aycliffe Care Home in Newton Aycliffe both went the extra mile to ensure their Christmas fairs were a magical experience for residents and the community alike.

Old fashioned sweet sellers, brass bands, bric-a-brac stalls, raffles, tombolas, Father Christmas and luxurious beauty treatments were just some of the treats on offer.

At Rose Lodge, which is part of the Countrywide Group, there was even more reason to celebrate as the event coincided with the home’s tenth anniversary.

Care home manager Karen Frew-McGill said it was wonderful to join together and celebrate the milestone.

“Events like these are always popular and I think they are important too,” she said. “We are opening our doors and breaking down the stereotypes surrounding care homes.”

Opened by the Mayor of Great Aycliffe, Councillor Barbara Clare, Aycliffe Care Home’s fair was also extra special this year, as it was a chance for the public to see the results of a major refurbishment scheme that has transformed the entire home.

Shirley Summerbell, peripatetic manager for Akari Care, which owns the home, said: “We always like to hold events that include the community as our residents are very much part of the community.”

Funds raised at both fair will go towards trips, activities and luxury items for residents.