Live reindeer take part in event at New Forest care home

Residents and staff at Woodpeckers in Sway Road, Brockenhurst, welcomed children from the village's pre-school and primary school, plus friends, neighbours, and community contacts.  

The fun-filled event featured two live reindeer, Jingles and Prancer, plus Father Christmas and his team of elves.

Visitors could play a game involving Rudolph, the fictional reindeer who uses his bright red nose to guide Santa's sleigh on Christmas Eve. They also had the opportunity to buy seasonal gifts at craft stalls and win raffle prizes donated by New Forest businesses.

READ MORE: Woodpeckers care home in Sway Road, Brockenhurst, joins the National Gardens Scheme

The event raised £1,200 for the Honeypot charity, which supports young carers.

Sian Harris, companionship team member at Woodpeckers, said: "It was the second year we've held a ‘meet the reindeer’ afternoon.

"Once again, we had a huge number of visitors, with children flooding in to see the reindeer. Word had clearly spread in the local area. It was such a popular event.”

Woodpeckers care home is situated at Brockenhurst in the New Forest (Image: Newsquest.)

Woodpeckers resident June Farrow, who helped out on one of the stalls, added: "I loved seeing the children come and enjoy themselves. It made me feel happy and bubbly."

READ MORE: Woodpeckers care home opens its garden to the public

After the event, staff extended the raffle's reach by taking the stall to the Christmas lights switch-on in the centre of the village.

Viv Carter, community fundraising manager at Honeypot, said: "The enthusiasm and energy from everyone at Woodpeckers is overwhelming.

“We are so happy to have their support. They have really driven their fundraising for us with an understanding of the impact it has.

“Their support will enable young carers aged five to 12 to take a break from caring and have fun being a child at Honeypot House in the New Forest.”

Woodpeckers care home is situated at Brockenhurst in the New Forest (Image: Newsquest.)

The businesses that donated raffle prizes were Marchwood Candles, Burley Wagon Rides, Burley Fudge, Fitness Evolution, Quirky Crafts, and Messy Kate.

Woodpeckers is one of 21 homes owned by Colten Care, which operates in Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, and West Sussex.

Seven of the homes are rated "Outstanding" by the Care Quality Commission, which regulates the industry.