A DORSET nursing and residential home welcomed families, friends and locals for a celebration marking more than three decades providing care.

Residents and staff at Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House, in Blandford Forum, held an afternoon party to mark its 35th anniversary serving the market town.

The fun took place in the courtyard of the home, off Whitecliff Mill Street, with Frank Sinatra tribute act, Swinging Sinatra, providing the soundtrack.

Two long-standing Whitecliffe House colleagues, Cheryl Jay and Patricia Johnson, were each honoured for more than 21 years’ service, with team members singing a song specially dedicated to them.

Among the guests were Blandford Mayor, Councillor Colin Stevens, plus representatives from both his chosen charity, Nourish Foodbank, the Community Larder, and Blandford Museum.

While the museum representatives shared stories, photographs and memorabilia, Nourish manager Florentyna Taylor was presented with 10 boxes of donated food items collected by Whitecliffe House families, friends and staff. A raffle at the event also raised £250 for the charity.

Florentyna said: “To find a table full of donations was incredibly touching. We felt so welcomed and truly appreciated for the work we do.”

The Mayor, who was accompanied by Mayor Consort Chris Stevens, his wife, said: “It was a really happy event. The entertainment was fantastic, and we were delighted to be invited and to show our support.”

Among the Whitecliffe House residents at the party was Stella Symes who said: “I had such a wonderful afternoon. Everyone was chatting and reminiscing and the food was lovely.”

Keith Dawson, the son of a resident, described the celebration as “excellent”, and added: “It gave everyone the opportunity to meet new people, enjoy great food and drink and spend time together.”

Home manager, Emma Williams, said: “It was a really lovely occasion and a great way to celebrate our service to Blandford and the wider area since we first opened back in 1991.”