Diwali celebrations at Banbury care home make resident's day

Staff and residents at the care home in Stratford Road, Drayton, Banbury enjoyed a homemade buffet of traditional sweets and treats whilst gazing at the wonderful lights and decorations. Staff even dressed in magnificent saris and authentic Indian attire as part of the event.

This was a very special afternoon for one resident in particular. For Sheila Palmer it was a trip down memory lane.

Sheila was born and raised in India before moving to the UK after the war. For her the event was an emotional journey down memory lane to taste her favourite Indian delights again for the first time since 1952. Shelia was transported back to her childhood listening to her favourite music and eating again the tastes of her past - homemade Jalebi and barfi.

Sheila said: “I want to extend my sincere gratitude to every single member of staff who made this possible and made the effort to bring it together and make it so special.”

Emily Sweetingham, the activities coordinator Glebefields Care Home, said: “This was an incredibly special wish to fulfil and Sheila was blown away by the efforts we had all put in to ensure a truly wonderful and authentic experience.

"We are delighted to have celebrated this wonderful festival together and to have made it such a special activity for all."