Beech Manors Christmas Surprise
Residents from Beech Manor Care Home in Blairgowrie recently enjoyed a heartwarming Christmas treat thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor and the hospitality of the Rattray Friendship Café.
Six residents were invited to join other regular attendees of the café’s weekly gathering at The Angus Hotel, where they shared a special Christmas lunch with other members of the community.
The anonymous donor gifted 100 free Christmas lunches to elderly residents in the area, with Beech Manor residents among the lucky recipients. The festive meal featured a choice of roast turkey with all the trimmings or steak pie, followed by either sticky toffee pudding or cheesecake. Teas and coffees were accompanied by shortbread and chocolates donated by Renaissance Care, completing the Christmas dining experience.
The food was delicious, and the music was fantastic. I’ve met so many lovely people today. It’s a day I won’t forget.”
Resident Fred Whitson, 104
Local musician Mike Mooney, a regular performer at the Friendship Café and a familiar face at Beech Manor, provided lively musical entertainment, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The event was a wonderful opportunity for residents to mingle with other care home guests and members of the wider community, building connections and enjoying the spirit of Christmas.
Recently, Beech Manor received a £150,000 refurbishment as part of a group-wide investment by Renaissance Care. The upgrades include redecoration of communal areas such as dining rooms, lounges, activity rooms, and corridors, as well as the installation of state-of-the-art infrared heating panels. This heating system not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances comfort for residents by ensuring better heat circulation. The investment underscores Renaissance Care’s commitment to providing a high-quality living and wellbeing experience for all residents.
Sheila Baxter, wellbeing lead at Beech Manor, said: “The anonymous donor's generosity and the warm welcome from the Friendship Café team made this a truly special day for our residents, especially at Christmastime. It’s events like these that bring people together and create cherished memories.”
Resident Fred Whitson, 104, said: “The food was delicious, and the music was fantastic. I’ve met so many lovely people today. It’s a day I won’t forget.”
The Friendship Café, organised by Aly Muir, runs weekly on Thursday mornings from 10:00 to 11:30 at Rattray Church Hall on Balmoral Road. Open to all, the café offers tea, coffee, and biscuits alongside an hour of musical entertainment. It provides a welcoming space for people to connect, form friendships, and enjoy the company of others.
The team at Beech Manor Care Home expressed their gratitude to Aly and the Friendship Café team, as well as the anonymous donor, for their kindness and generosity, which brought festive joy to their residents this December.
Renaissance Care, which celebrated its 20-year anniversary this year, operates 17 care homes across Scotland, employing more than 1,350 people and caring for 800 residents.
