As 2016 draws to a close, the staff and residents of Octagon have been busier than ever, enjoying numerous festive outings and events. One of the highlights was our Christmas party which saw around fifty people in total, including residents’ families, join us for mulled wine, drinks and a buffet.
Singer Marie, who was a big hit at our summer party, once again joined us to provide the entertainment, and soon had everyone singing along with traditional festive favourites. What’s more, our bumper Christmas raffle, which featured three hampers full of goodies, managed to raise an impressive £200 which will go towards residents’ outings in 2017.
Speaking of outings, several residents and staff took a trip to the Towngate Theatre to watch the 5 star reviewed Sleeping Beauty. We really enjoyed the performance which features stunning scenery, great dance routines and an amazing live band. Not on such a grand scale, but still very enjoyable nonetheless, was the nativity ‘The Good, The Bad & The Donkey’ performed by Noakbridge School children. We visited the school to watch their rehearsal after the Year 6 children had visited Octagon for afternoon tea and fun with the residents.
Our hard working staff have also had a well-deserved Christmas night out at Stockbridge Manor, ahead of our house Christmas Dinner, when residents, staff and members of the Abbeyfield Basildon committee will sit down together for a traditional meal with all the trimmings. We hope you all have as much fun as we’ve had so far – Merry Christmas!