Curo brought some Christmas sparkle to residents at Hawthorn Court Extra Care accommodation, Keynsham, on Thursday 14 December. 

Guests were treated to a traditional dinner with all the trimmings, music from singing duo Sian and Rob and a raffle with prizes donated by builders' merchants Travis Perkins.

Resident Matt Gabriel said: "This is my first Christmas party so I'm looking forward to the dinner and entertainment." Matt, who's blind, said he loves living at Hawthorn Court: "The staff are friendly and we all get on well together, so I feel very lucky."

Curo's Extra Care housing is designed for older people who need more support than sheltered housing offers but who would still like to be independent. Many of the residents find it difficult to get out and about, so the Christmas event was a precious way for them to share the season of goodwill.

"This is the only celebration some of our residents will get this year," said Clare Pollock, Livewell Officer. "Many of them have no family to visit them on Christmas Day, so this means so much to them. We feel proud that we can bring some magic into their lives."

As well as Hawthorn's residents, older people in the area could also come along to enjoy the festivities. "We're getting into the Christmas spirit," said Clare Hudson, who lives in a nearby bungalow. "I'm here with friends and it's nice to meet all the staff as well. They've gone to a lot of trouble – it's fantastic. I'm looking forward to watching the band as my husband loves singing."

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Above: Residents enjoy the Timsbury festivities.

The party was one of three which Curo is putting on for older residents. Another took place at Conygre Hall, Timsbury, on Wednesday 6 December, and one is planned for Southdown Church, Bath, on Tuesday 19 December.

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Above: Singing duo Sian and Rob are playing at all three of the parties.

"The atmosphere was absolutely amazing," said resident Denise Stretton, who was at the Timsbury party. "The group were superb, they sang all the songs that we oldies love. Curo need to be proud of themselves – they've done wonders. It's been such a nice day out. My friend who couldn't come will be so peeved when I tell her what she's missed out on!"

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Above: Builders' merchant Travis Perkins supplied the amazing raffle prizes.

Holly Reed, Livewell Officer at Curo, who helped to organise the events, said: "The parties bring people together who otherwise might be lonely or isolated. These celebrations show residents that someone cares about them."

Sophie Robinson, Livewell Team Leader, said: "The best thing about these parties is seeing the residents have a good time. I love it when they get up to dance. The only problem is making sure we have enough gravy – they always want more!"

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Above: Guests at the Timsbury party.