A care home has welcomed the local community to its first Christmas lights switch-on.

Eastern Daily Press: Christmas celebrations at Cavell Court in Cringleford near Norwich. Ellen and Sheree with Charlotte and Barney the donkey.Christmas celebrations at Cavell Court in Cringleford near Norwich. Ellen and Sheree with Charlotte and Barney the donkey. (Image: Willoughby PR © 2016)

The Care UK team at Cavell Court on Dragonfly Lane, Cringleford, opened the home's doors for a festive celebration and were joined by two donkeys and two owls.

The donkeys, named Fred and Barney, came from Scratby Donkeys, while the owls – Fluke and Shadow –joined from Fritton Owl Sanctuary.

Gladys Marshall, a resident at Cavell Court since it opened in 2015, was given the honour of switching the lights on.

Students from Norwich High School for Girls sang carols and visitors were also able to taste some festive treats – prepared for by the home's head chef.

Eastern Daily Press: Christmas celebrations at Cavell Court in Cringleford near Norwich. Ellen and Sheree with Charlotte and Barney the donkey.Christmas celebrations at Cavell Court in Cringleford near Norwich. Ellen and Sheree with Charlotte and Barney the donkey. (Image: Willoughby PR © 2016)

Kelly Mendham, Cavell Court home manager, said: 'The visit from our furry and feathered friends proved to be a real success and you could see from residents' reactions just how engaged and fascinated they were by the chance to get up close with the donkeys and owls.

'It was fantastic to see the smiles on everyone's faces, and we believe it had real therapeutic benefits for residents – especially those living with dementia.'

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