Care home starts their celebrations

SOME VIP guests were on hand to help staff and residents of Dundee’s Balcarres nursing home celebrate their first open day since Covid.

Dundee’s Lord Provost Bill Campbell and leader of the council John Alexander helped 89-year-old resident Alma Campbell cut the ribbon to start the celebrations.

The open day also saw the launch of the DC Thomson-themed village with the Dandy Candy sweetie shop and the Beano Brew cafe.

Care home manager Lyne Maclean said: “This is a big day for us and everyone has worked really hard to pull it all together.

“It’s wonderful to be able to open an open day again and get everyone back together to enjoy themselves.

“We’re delighted with our new DC Thomson village and so grateful to everyone who has helped pull it all together for our residents and families to enjoy.”

Lyne said the home had been successful in staying Covid-free throughout lockdown, something they worked very hard to maintain.

She said: “It’s great that we managed to avoid Covid here and even better now that we can all get together to enjoy a party with residents, family and friends.”

Activities co-ordinator Alison Bowman said: “The sun is shining and this is a great day for us.

“We are delighted with the DC Thomson village. It’s looking amazing and going to be a great hit with everyone.”

Lord Provost Bill Campbell said: “It’s a real honour to be invited here today to help cut the ribbon to mark the open day.”

Mr Alexander said: “When you think about the impact that Covid had on the elderly residents of Dundee it’s testament to everyone here that the home managed to remain Covid free.

“Finally it’s amazing that the home can hold their first open day in two years and come together to celebrate.”