The Manor House Barnard Castle joins forces for virtual Christmas market

Christmas markets might be cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic but, not to be deterred, several Anchor care homes have gone above and beyond to organise their very own.

The Manor House, Barnard Castle joined forces with four other Anchor care homes to host the special virtual Christmas Market just last week. 

Hosted on Zoom, residents from all five care homes along with their family and friends were able to take a virtual tour of a specially constructed market. Items that were on display were gifts made by the residents , Christmas cards, Christmas tree decorations and knitted toys, which anyone viewing could make a request to purchase and if they liked the look of it, have it delivered in time for Christmas!

The Zoom call also provided an opportunity for viewers to watch a short film showcasing Christmas preparations in each home, with residents sharing their special Christmas memories.

Along with the online market, residents were also treated to traditional Christmas snacks and mulled wine and took part in events such as Christmas cookie making.

Resident Robert Barnett, 88, said how much he enjoyed the virtual Christmas Market. He said: 

It was such a fun time! It’s a shame that we can’t go to a traditional Christmas fair but seeing everyone from all these different homes come together to put this on was really special. It’s a bit different doing your Christmas shopping via an online tour, but we still got to enjoy the traditional little things like the music, mince pies and mulled wine!

Diane Armstrong, organiser of the Christmas Market, said: 

We’re delighted to have been able to organise something like this for our residents. Huge credit to all the homes pulling together and organising something so brilliant! It’s lovely to be able to do something like this to celebrate Christmas. Alongside the Market, the team at The Manor House have also organised some carol singalongs and other traditional activities as well.

Based in Durham, The Manor House at Barnard Castle is a contemporary residential care home set in luxurious surroundings. The Manor House offers first class care and facilities with premium en-suite rooms for up to 76 residents, in a light and spacious setting. Looking for a care home for yourself or a loved one? For further information on The Manor House Barnard Castle, head over to our dedicated webpage or call 0800 731 202.