RESIDENTS and staff celebrated Christmas in style at Rothsay Grange Care Home in Andover with a visit from Santa and his helpers, including one four-pawed friend.

With a groaning sleigh full of presents Santa visited every resident with his entourage on Christmas Eve before setting off on his travels again. 

Smiles were everywhere as Santa did the rounds and chatted to everyone, and he took it in good humour when his canine helper, attired in their own outfit, seemed to get more attention than the main man himself.

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General manager Gemma Hicks said: "We are so grateful to Santa and his helpers for taking the time to drop into Rothsay and visit each of our residents. Christmas is such a special time at the home and our staff go all out to make it as vibrant and fun as possible for our residents and visitors, but having Santa come and spend time with us just made it that little bit more special. 

"It has been an incredibly busy and happy time here at the home and we are now looking forward to celebrating the New Year in style.  Thank you to everyone who has made this festive season special, the happy smiles on the faces of the residents and staff that I see around the home say it all – it has been a very special time here at Rothsay Grange and we wish everyone all the best for a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year."

Rothsay Grange Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Rothsay Grange provides residential, nursing and dementia care for 66 residents from short-term respite to long term stays.