Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court residents roll up for carnival success with winning display
2 June 2026
Above: Resident Jeanette and staff member Sophie proudly hold up the Home’s trophy and first prize certificate with the Carnival Queen and Princess at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Braintree. Behind, the vibrant carnival display that residents and staff put up together.
Residents at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Braintree, Essex, are celebrating after taking first place in a local carnival competition, following a week of creativity, collaboration and community spirit.
The care home transformed its conservatory into a vibrant carnival scene as part of the Braintree and Bocking Carnival, which this year embraced the theme “I Love Carnival”. Residents and staff worked together to design and build a colourful display inspired by classic fairground attractions, which included a Ferris wheel, a helter-skelter, kites, balloons and sweet treats.
The imaginative display quickly became a focal point within the Home, sparking conversations, memories and smiles among residents, staff and visitors alike.
Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court was delighted to welcome Carnival Queen Olivia and Princess Raven, who visited to judge the competition entries. During their visit, they spent time chatting with residents and admiring the display, as well as discussing carnival traditions and costumes.
A particularly special moment came when they met 105-year-old resident Ron Thompson, who thoroughly enjoyed the visit and the opportunity to share in the celebrations.
The Carnival Queen and Princess pose with 105-year-old resident Ron.
A festive day of celebration
The following day, the royal visitors returned with exciting news, announcing that Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court had been awarded first place. Residents and staff were presented with a certificate, trophy and medals, recognising their hard work and creativity.
Sophie George, Activities Coordinator at the Home, says:
It has been such a joyful and memorable experience for everyone involved. From the very beginning, residents and staff threw themselves into the project with so much enthusiasm and creativity!
Seeing the finished display bring so much happiness, and then being awarded first place, has made us all incredibly proud. It really shows what can be achieved when we come together as a community.
The celebrations continued with another heart-warming visit from the Carnival Princess, who was especially keen to spend more time with Mr Thompson, creating yet another memorable moment for residents.
[Summary: Residents and staff at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Braintree, Essex, celebrated winning first place in a local carnival competition after collaboratively creating a vibrant fairground-themed display for the Braintree and Bocking Carnival.]