Wimbledon is the most celebrated Grand Slam Tennis Tournament in the world dating back to 1877, and to no surprise it was celebrated in style at Farnham Mill. Fun was had by everyone, from a “strawberries and cream” Tea Party to a “mini” game of tennis on the balcony.

Monday 3 July – In the morning a residents’ meeting was held giving the residents an opportunity to have a chat and give feedback regarding the running of the home and plans moving forward. Staff were celebrated with “sunflower awards”, whereby they are recognised by colleagues, family, and residents for going the “extra mile”.

Our Monday morning music therapy session took place in our Day Centre. We then visited some residents in their rooms where the therapist played instruments and sang to them. To our delight, they sang along too.

In the afternoon we enjoyed a Wimbledon-themed Tea Party with strawberries and cream and a cake decorated like a tennis court.

This was followed by a tennis quiz given by our lovely volunteer Susie.

Tuesday 4 July – We had our Arts and Craft Club in the morning where residents chose either to colour ‘Wimbledon Fashion’ pictures, or paint and use their creative ability to make tennis balls.

In the afternoon residents were pampered with manicures given by Prabesh, and hair styling done by our in-house hairdresser.

Wednesday 5th July – In the morning we played “mini” tennis. The residents had so much fun, and it triggered forgotten or hidden talents.

Residents were encouraged to include themselves in the Tennis themed brain training games that were played with great enthusiasm.

In the afternoon some residents went on what has become a popular activity at Farnham Mill- a trip to the local pub. Half pints all around, accompanied of course, with packets of crisps, but above all else, each other’s company was very good!

Back at Farnham Mill the residents were watching Wimbledon on TV and celebrating a resident’s birthday.

Thursday 6 July – We enjoyed a morning full of activities including an art project in the activities room- ‘Let’s make a tennis racket’.

In the afternoon we took part in our weekly flower arranging club, which was followed by afternoon tea altogether on the balcony.

Meanwhile, other residents were treated to the sounds of music being played on the piano on the second floor.

Friday 7 July – Some of our lovely residents enjoyed garden walks in the fresh air whilst having a chit-chat. It’s so good to indulge and stimulate the senses in the beauty of the surroundings.

Songs of Praise with Father John, held in the morning on the 2nd floor. The residents happily joined in with the singing of old hymns.

In the afternoon the popular and debonair Jimmy Kent performed some classic songs to our rapt audience. There was the tapping of feet, clapping of hands, and even some dancing. It was delightful to see how excited some of the residents became when he serenaded them, holding their hands and getting down on one knee to look them in the eye.

Saturday 8 July – In true Wimbledon style, the rain came down and play was interrupted. However, play was not interrupted at Farnham Mill and the fun continued with Wimbledon word games and table tennis. When possible, play resumed as residents went outside to enjoy the sun and the fragrance of the jasmine.

In the afternoon, our ladies and gentlemen enjoyed Pimm’s while watching Wimbledon.

Cheers from all of us!

Sunday 9 July – This morning we had an activity for almost everyone, from a Sunday Service, a book trolley, to some amazing balloon tennis.

In the afternoon we rounded off our fun filled Wimbledon Week by watching the last of the tennis matches for the week on TV whilst enjoying delicious ice cream and fresh fruit.

A great time was had by all!