Taste, sights and sounds of American South come to Lymington care home

Yeehaw! The sights and sounds of the American South came to Hampshire when a Lymington care home adopted a country and western theme for its annual barbecue.

Residents and guests at Colten Care’s Court Lodge tucked into a tasty selection of American-inspired dishes including hot dogs, burgers and – by special request – barbecued ribs.

Chefs Fiona Roebuck and Matt Jerrard, together with Catering Manager Paddy O’Driscoll, also created a number of themed cakes including Devil’s Food, Hummingbird, Rocky Road and Red Velvet cakes.

Potatoes, herbs and edible flowers on the desserts were home-grown with input from residents and support from Court Lodge’s gardener, David Aylieff-Sansom.

Entertainment was provided by country and western guitarist/singer Nigel Revell, aka The Lone Reveller, while a horse called Toffee proved a particular hit.

The 17-year-old grey gelding, from Ampfield Riding Stables in Romsey, was accompanied by her owner, Anna Beck.

Residents entered into the spirit of the occasion by donning Stetsons with one, Peter Woolgar, 95, dressing as a Sheriff complete with fake moustache and badge.

Sam Reid, Home Manager, said Court Lodge chose a different theme for the eagerly anticipated barbecue every year.

She added: “Everyone – carers, housekeepers, nurses, activity organisers and, of course, our fantastic chefs – work together to put on this event.

“It was a huge success and our guests, including residents, relatives and people from the local community, had a lovely time. The feedback has been fantastic.”