It’s been a busy Easter for residents of our Holy Cross Care Home in Sunderland, with visiting entertainers and some friendly competition.
The holiday period kicked off with a visit from Michelle Ball from Beamish Museum, who brought a selection of items from the museum’s collection. Michelle’s visit was arranged following two very popular reminiscence sessions at Holy Cross’ sister home, St Catherine’s in Newcastle. Residents got together in the home’s cosy 
library to share memories prompted by common household items from their younger days.
Activities co-ordinator, Liz King, said: “Everyone had a really enjoyable afternoon and the stories about the ‘old days’ just kept flowing. We are all looking forward to another visit from Michelle but, in the meantime, she has left us a box of items pass round and talk about.”
A few days later, singing duo Jim and Val, who had proved a great hit on their last visit, were back to lead everyone in a sing-along followed by wine and cakes.
The Holy Cross Easter Bonnet Parade brought together three generations of residents’ families. Some stunning creations, made by residents and their families, were modelled by grandchildren and great-grandchildren. There were special prizes for first, second and third places, and everyone else received a consolation prize of a Creme Egg followed by tea and hot cross buns.
The holiday week was rounded off with an indoor bowls competition between residents of Holy Cross and a neighbouring care home, The Croft. This was a re-match following a recent draw between the two teams and this time Holy Cross took the honours, winning by three games to two. Once again, wine and cakes were the order of the day to celebrate.
There are a limited number of nursing and residential vacancies at Holy Cross. If you are interested in finding out more, or would like to arrange a visit, please call 0191 228 8000.