Christmas Lights Switch On

The Mayor and Mayoress of Cambridge visit to officially kick off our festive celebrations.

Mince pies, mulled wine and festive hits were enjoyed here at Bramley Court as we got into the festive spirit with our Christmas lights switch on.

Family members joined their loved ones and the team for the event with special guests, the Mayor and Mayoress of Cambridge. Our residents recalled wonderful memories of Christmases gone by and the special moments they have shared with their families.

“They were all delighted to be able to share this special evening with their families after the difficulties of the last couple of years,” said our Head of Wellbeing, Wendy Bracey. “Everyone said the lights looked very pretty and were thrilled to spend time with the Mayor and Mayoress! It was a wonderfully festive atmosphere.

The Mayor, Cllr Mark Ashton, and Mayoress Barbara Ashton, chatted with residents about what this time of year meant to them and their happy memories from childhood as well as with their own children.

“We learned about some family traditions,” added Wendy, “including hanging socks at the end of children’s beds instead of Christmas stockings on the fireplace, and everyone had lovely memories of the family gathering on Christmas Day and Boxing Day – even during the war years.

“Although they didn’t have the extravagant gifts children have these days, these Christmases were very special to them and you could see the smiles on all their faces.”

A snow machine was let off and Slade’s festive classic, ‘So here it is Merry Christmas’ rang out as the Mayor and Barbara pressed the button.

The Mayor of Cambridge, Cllr Mark Ashton, said: “Myself and the Mayoress were both delighted and honoured to switch on the Christmas lights and be part of the celebration. Although it was a cold night, we all had a warm experience. It was amazing to see how the home operates and the wonderful team who look after the residents as well as talking with the residents and hearing how much they enjoy living in Bramley Court.”

The cold weather meant some of our residents stayed close to the warmth and watched on from their balconies while those who wanted to be in the heart of the action enjoyed festive treats and danced to Christmas songs.

Care home manager, Judith Wroe, added: “To be able to hold events like this for our residents is so special as it brings us all together; them, their families and the Bramley team. We were delighted to welcome the Mayor and Barbara to our wonderful home and it was lovely to see how much time they gave to our residents, going above and beyond to make it a special evening for them.

“It’s great to be able to share these moments together. It really connects us and is lovely for the families to see how we love to spend this invaluable time and create special memories for everyone.”