It’s been a busy start to the 2023 social calendar at Middleton Hall Retirement Village.

Since the beginning of the year a wide range of activities and entertainment has been helping residents to chase away the winter blues at the award-winning retirement village located in a 45-acre estate in Middleton St George, near Darlington.

The Northern Echo: Residents can enjoy many scenic walks through the groundsResidents can enjoy many scenic walks through the grounds (Image: Middleton Hall Retirement Village)

Preparations for the evening started early in January, when residents in Middleton Hall’s Middleton Grove supported apartments had an afternoon of crafting table decorations with one of Middleton Hall’s activities co-ordinators, who also created a beautiful floral centrepiece for the top table at the special dining event.

Residents from across the village attended the dinner, where celebrations began with a bagpiper to greet guests, as well as a complimentary whisky whilst everyone gathered. A resident from Middleton Hall’s independent retirement Waterside properties then addressed the haggis in the traditional manner by reciting Robert Burns’ ‘Address to a Haggis‘ before a theatrical cutting of the haggis with a ceremonial knife.

Dishes served included haggis, neeps and tatties, highland chicken, cabbie claw and a dessert of cranachan trifle. Before the starters were served the Selkirk grace prayer was read out.

Guests commented that the menu was “traditional, well thought-out and executed to perfection” and the Middleton Hall team received lots of positive feedback after the event.

One diner commented: “The organisation, superb table settings and food were outstanding. The atmosphere was exciting and fun. Well done to you all.”

Whilst another added: “I enjoyed the evening and look forward to next year. The food, drinks, company, table arrangements were all very acceptable and the piper added that little extra.”

Alongside the Burns Night celebrations, residents also had a busy monthly schedule of trips, activities and events to choose from. In January, in addition to the weekly exercise classes, pottery sessions, bridge club and trips to local attractions, this included a screening of an Andre Rieu concert, a talk about staying safe online by Age UK, a very popular Beetle Drive and Chinese New Year celebrations.

The Northern Echo: Middleton Hall Retirement Village is located in 45-acres of award-winning groundsMiddleton Hall Retirement Village is located in 45-acres of award-winning grounds (Image: Middleton Hall Retirement Village)

To get a flavour of what’s on for residents to enjoy at Middleton Hall Retirement Village visit  https://www.middletonhallretirementvillage.co.uk/whats-on/ or call 01325 332207 to find out more.

Middleton Hall Retirement Village, Middleton St. George, Darlington, County Durham, DL2 1HA www.middletonhallretirementvillage.co.uk