Community spirit shines for Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court residents at teddy bears’ picnic

Above: Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court residents Doreen and Bill, Activities Coordinator Sophie (centre) and volunteers Alison and Annette enjoy a sunny picnic day at the Teddy Bears’ Picnic held at Earls Colne Recreational Centre, in Colchester. 

Residents, staff and volunteers from Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Braintree (Essex), recently enjoyed a delightful day at the Teddy Bears Picnic held at Earls Colne Recreational Centre, in Colchester.

The event, brimming with stalls, games and a welcoming community spirit, was the perfect setting for residents Doreen and Bill to soak up the summer atmosphere. Doreen, a lifelong teddy bear enthusiast, was especially thrilled to be surrounded by cuddly bears of all shapes and sizes. It is a passion that she also shares at the Home with her much-loved, oversized teddy that sits proudly on her bed.

Doreen proudly poses with their beloved teddy bears at the picnic.

Bill, well-known at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court for his friendly nature, made plenty of new acquaintances during the outing. One particularly special moment came when he met a fellow Irish visitor. The pair quickly struck up a conversation in Gaelic, a language the lady said she thought she had forgotten. She was delighted to reconnect with her roots, and Bill said the experience had truly made his day.

The group was joined by dedicated volunteers Alison and Annette, who both agreed the outing was a joyful occasion. The afternoon concluded with a treat of homemade ice cream from a local vendor, the perfect sweet ending to a day filled with smiles, conversation and intergenerational connections.

Activities Coordinator Sophie George says:

It was such a special day for everyone. Seeing Doreen and Bill enjoying themselves and making new connections in the community was truly heart-warming.

There were lots of children around too, who both Doreen and Bill really enjoyed interacting with. And we’re so grateful to our volunteers for helping to make these experiences possible!

Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court regularly organises trips and activities to encourage residents to connect and engage with the local community.

[Summary: Residents, staff and volunteers from Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Essex, enjoyed a joyful day at the Teddy Bears’ Picnic in Colchester, filled with games, stalls and community spirit. Highlights included Doreen’s delight at the teddy bear displays and Bill’s heart-warming Gaelic conversation with a fellow Irish visitor, with the day ending on a sweet note of homemade ice cream.]