‘Happy hours’ aplenty as care homes shake and stir a world of cocktails
Fun-loving residents have been in high spirits in celebration of World Cocktail Day.
‘Happy hours’ were held at our care homes in Dorset, Hampshire and West Sussex, with drinks making and tasting sessions and the sounds of jazz adding a touch of style and time-honoured elegance to lounge get-togethers.
At Woodpeckers in Brockenhurst, Hampshire, residents mixed some tantalising non-alcoholic ingredients in a bid to win the prestigious crown of King or Queen of the Mocktails.
Companionship Team Leader Jane Bunker said: “The laughter and stories flowed as freely as the drinks. Each mocktail served as a toast to health, friends and the skilful art of mixology.”
Home Manager Priya Joseph, Chef Brian Pearce and visitor Janet McCann from the home’s charity of the year the Brockenhurst Gateway Club had the honour of judging the best mocktail.
In the end, Queen of the Mocktails was declared to be June Farrow with her Grapefruit Surprise concoction.
June said: “I was delighted to receive such an accolade and more than happy to wear my crown. It was a delightful afternoon all round.”
At Wellington Grange in Chichester, residents received an invite to a cocktail evening in the home’s Market Cross sitting room with the opportunity to dress up if they wanted.
A choice of five cocktails was on offer including classics such as Aperol Spritz and Bloody Mary.
“It was lovely and relaxed,” said resident Deirdre Wade Smith. “We all enjoyed nice company chatting and sharing stories with each other over a cocktail or two.”
At Brook View in West Moors, residents and staff turned the in-home café into ‘Brookies Cocktail Bar’ complete with a soundtrack of jazz standards and a cocktail-themed quiz.
Chef Jack Wood ran the bar, creating and serving drinks such as London lemonade, rosemary and orange gin and refreshing mocktails.
Resident Trevor Clark dug out his dickie bow and became a dashing waiter for the occasion, helping Jack with the cocktail shaking and serving.
Companionship Team Leader Lauren Parrett said: “This was a lovely opportunity for residents to get together and enjoy each other’s company.
“We have had a few new residents join us recently so it was a perfect way to introduce them to everyone.”
Resident Paula Marels said: “What an enjoyable afternoon, Trevor was a fantastic host and the drinks were delicious.”
And fellow resident Leah Row said: “I had such a lovely afternoon with everyone. The atmosphere was great and I hope to do this again.”