Care Home Transformed into Buckingham Palace for Jubilee Celebrations
Residents at a Windsor care home have been dining like kings and queens – quite literally – after being given the ultimate Platinum Jubilee surprise.
Residents at Care UK’s Mountbatten Grange, in Windsor, received the royal treatment when they woke up to find their home had been transformed into a regal residency fit for a queen.
The incredible surprise came as the home geared up to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, a milestone many residents, some of whom worked at Windsor Castle in their younger years, were excited to mark.
After being told in the morning to ‘dress to impress’ for a special surprise, residents were greeted by team members dressed as the Queen’s Guard, before being led down the newly laid red carpet for a right royal knees-up.
Residents were amazed to discover the home’s usual coffee shop had been completely transformed into Buckingham Palace. Red drapes, royal portraits, a fireplace, and lavish decorations adorned the home – with a giant throne taking centre stage for residents to be crowned royalty for a day.
Adding to the quintessentially British theme of the day, the home’s talented head chef, Mohamed Taghouti, prepared a delicious afternoon tea, featuring sandwiches, cakes and scones for residents to enjoy.
And keen for residents to experience a true taste of palace life, the home also welcomed his royal furriness, Marcel Le Corgi, who made a grand entrance – greeting Mountbatten’s new royal family with his wagging tail and friendly bark.
98-year-old resident, Kathleen Lewis, said:
“We knew nothing about what was going on – it was all done so secretly. I thought it was fantastic. It was quite a surprise!”
88-year-old Jim Mundy added:
“It was great fun and very well organised. I thoroughly enjoyed it! I’d like to see the Queen live until the age of 100.”
Debbie Winwood, Home Manager at Mountbatten Grange, commented:
“We had such a wonderful time celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with our secret royal transformation.
“Here at Mountbatten Grange, we base our activities and special events on residents likes and interests and are always looking for new and exciting ways to support residents lead fulfilling lives. We have many royalists living here, especially being so close to Windsor Castle, and knew how keen they would be to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee, which is why we decided to celebrate in style!
“Nobody could believe it, especially when they saw us all dressed up as the Queen’s Guard and Marcel le Corgi running in. We had so much fun, and we’re already planning our next big surprise for residents to enjoy. Just like the jubilee – this was certainly a memorable day and one which we will remember for many years to come.”
