A CARE home got in the Christmas spirit by hosting a Christmas fair and market for its residents and their guests in aid of the Barchester Foundation charity.

St Thomas’ Care Home, in St Thomas’ Close, hosted the event, which was held on behalf of the four Barchester care homes in Basingstoke.

The festive event featured a choir which entertained residents and visitors including Basingstoke and Deane Mayor and Mayoress Councillor Martin Biermann and Chansopha Biermann.

Visitors enjoyed a feast of festive foods prepared by the home’s award-winning chef, Janet Farrow.

Venita Couzens, general manager of St Thomas’, said: “We endeavoured to give each of our residents something that they could really be excited about in the run up to Christmas and have had lots of treats for the people who live here and their guests.

“I’m pleased that we could hold something like this for our homes in Basingstoke, have fun and raise money for charity.”

More than £320 was raised in aid of Barchester’s Charitable Foundation – a charity helping older people and those with disabilities live their lives to the full.

St Thomas’, Cherry Blossom Manor, Ashcombe House and Marnel Lodge are four of 220 care homes owned by Barchester Healthcare. The homes regularly hold events and activities for its residents and surrounding neighbours.