Exmoor Zoo Brings the Wild to Edenmore Nursing Home

Edenmore Nursing Home recently invited Exmoor Zoo into visit their residents (fondly referred to as family members), bringing an incredible array of animals in as part of their educational roadshow.

Portia, the zoo’s educational officer, introduced family members to a Royal Python, Meerkat, Stick Insect, Giant Snail, and Praying Mantis! Now, some may have been scared off by this visit, but not the Edenmore family, and for those who chose took part it was such an incredible social engagement opportunity. The visit encouraged conversation, curiosity, and reminiscence among family members, many of whom have a lifelong love of animals.

A Familiar Connection with Animals

For Alan, animals have always been an important part of life. Having previously owned foxes, the chance to hold and interact with some of the zoo’s creatures brought back fond memories. His daughter, Sue, shared how much these experiences mean to him, reflecting the value of continuing familiar interests and passions in later life.

Bringing Nature Indoors

The presence of animals in the home provides more than just entertainment, it offers comfort, sensory engagement, and opportunities for connection. For those living with a Dementia, engaging with animals can be particularly calming, helping to spark memories and meaningful moments.

Edenmore Nursing Home is committed to ensuring family members have access to inclusive and community focused activities that make everyday life feel familiar and purposeful. Partnering with community organisations like Exmoor Zoo allows family members to engage with the world around them in ways that feel natural, personal, and enjoyable.

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For more about Exmoor Zoo and their educational outreach, visit: Exmoor Zoo Facebook 

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For more about life at Edenmore Nursing Home, visit: www.edenmorenursinghome.com

The Great Sundial Bake Off

Sundial Care Home, which sits in the heart of Tipton St John, Devon, recently held their very own bake off. Team members at the home, tied on their aprons and whipped up a selection of delicious bakes for residents to taste and judge, who the home fondly refer to as “family members”.

Those who chose to participate had their voting slips and pens at the ready as they sampled a piece of each cake. Mikyla Tribble, the homes Administrator, prepared a perfectly glazed banana cake, Sue Smith, Care Assistant, crafted a rich chocolate sponge, decorated with roses and fondant icing, Tina Sutton, a part of the Kitchen Team baked a classic coffee and walnut cake, and finally, Liz Thompson, the home’s Manager, put together a rich chocolate cake decorated with chocolate buttons, which the family members chose to crown as first place winner.

Baking is a skill that many family members have enjoyed throughout their lives, and the bake off provided a fun and familiar experience for them to test the teams baking skills, whilst igniting fond memories through the power of taste and aroma.

The Care Home near Sidmouth, Devon, continues to offer meaningful activities that reflect daily life, provide opportunities that reflect daily life, ensuring those living there remain engaged and connected in ways that feel natural and fulfilling.

To find out more about Sundial Care Home, visit https://www.sundialcare.com/activities-in-care/

St David's Day with Hatherleigh Nursing Home

Hatherleigh Nursing Home near Okehampton, Devon, was filled with the colours, flavours, and sounds of Wales as family members (residents) and team members came together to celebrate St David’s Day. Administrator Tamsin, with the help of family member Alice, carefully arranged daffodil centrepieces for the tables, while hand-crafted napkins, folded into delicate floral shapes, added an extra touch of charm. The dining room was transformed with a vibrant display of red, green, and white, proudly reflecting the colours of the Welsh flag.

No celebration would be complete without traditional Welsh food, and Chef Faye prepared a delicious menu featuring a hearty lamb cawl, a classic Welsh stew, and a comforting bread and butter pudding for dessert. As family members gathered to enjoy their meal, the Welsh Male Voice Choir played on the homes Alexa in the background, adding to the nostalgic and celebratory atmosphere.

The Devon nursing home’s celebration of St David’s Day was not just about the food, but about embracing diversity, sharing traditions, and creating a true sense of community and inclusion within the home.

To find out more about Hatherleigh Nursing Home, visit https://www.hatherleighnursinghome.com/

The Red Dress: A Global Masterpiece Comes to Westpoint

We are proud to announce that the internationally acclaimed Red Dress Project will be on display at the Stitching 4 All & Craft4Crafters Show, offering a rare and extraordinary opportunity to witness this breathtaking piece of art in person.

A Global Collaboration

Created by British artist Kirstie Macleod, the Red Dress is a powerful symbol of resilience, creativity, and unity. Over the course of 14 years (2009–2023), this award-winning collaborative embroidery project travelled the globe, giving a platform to 367 artists from 51 countries, many of whom were women living in vulnerable conditions.

The dress itself is crafted from 87 pieces of burgundy silk dupion, intricately embroidered with stories that reflect the lives, struggles, and triumphs of its creators. Among the contributors are refugees, survivors of war, and individuals from diverse and marginalized communities, each adding their unique voice to this extraordinary garment.

A Symbol of Unity and Art

The Red Dress serves as a moving tribute to the human spirit, weaving together cultures, experiences, and creativity from around the world. Its intricate beauty and profound symbolism have made it an internationally celebrated artwork and a testament to the transformative power of art.

Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity

On display every day of the show from March 27th to 29th, 2025, at Westpoint Arena, this is a chance to experience an artwork that transcends borders and speaks to the universal language of resilience and creativity.

Visit craft4crafters.co.uk to learn more and plan your visit. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Red Dress Project, a masterpiece that unites stories from across the globe through the art of embroidery.

The Red Dress: A Global Masterpiece Comes to Westpoint March 27th–29th, 2025 | Westpoint Arena

Sundial Care Home welcomes Animals 2U

Sundial Care Home located near Sidmouth, welcomed some very small and unusual guests recently, as Animals 2U brought a selection of creatures for a hands on experience for those living there.

Among the visitors were tortoises, Tortellini and Timothy, bearded dragon, Rocky, and guinea pig, Ethel, each offering a unique interaction for residents, who the home fondly refer to as family members. The visit provided a chance to stroke, hold and observe each animal, sparking conversation and fond memories of pets from the past. For those unable to leave their beds, the experience was brought to them, ensuring everybody was included. These quiet, one-to-one moments provided a calming and engaging experience, particularly for those with a Dementia, who found comfort in the familiar textures and movements.

The visit encouraged connection and curiosity, with residents asking questions and sharing stories about their own animals. Sundial Care Home recognises the value of these interactions, supporting wellbeing and bringing a sense of warmth and companionship to daily life.

To find out more about Sundial Care Home, visit https://www.sundialcare.com/

The Ultimate Stitching Event Returns: Stitching 4 All & Craft4Crafters 2025

Calling all stitching enthusiasts! The Stitching 4 All & Craft4Crafters Show is back at Westpoint Arena, offering three unmissable days dedicated to textiles, dressmaking, embroidery, quilting, and more. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just beginning your stitching journey, this event has everything you need to spark inspiration and bring your projects to life.

 

A Stitcher’s Paradise

Explore an incredible range of supplies and expertise from some of the biggest names in the stitching and textile world. Discover exhibitors like Shute Lane, Caffle Crafts, Coolcrafting, Exeter Sewing Machines, and Jan Tillett, alongside fabric companies including Fabrics Galore, Lili Fabrics, Maple Textiles, Sewing Sanctuary, Sew Enchanting, and Sugar Bowl Crafts. With a variety of materials, tools, and ideas, you'll find endless possibilities to enhance your projects.
 

Workshops, Demonstrations, and More
Engage with hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, and expert talks, all designed to elevate your stitching, embroidery, and quilting skills. Learn from industry leaders, discover new techniques, and leave inspired to create something amazing.
 

Quilt Exhibition
Over 40 beautiful quilts will be on display including exhibits from SouthWest Quilters, SouthWest Modern Quilters and more.

Don’t Miss the Red Dress Project
A true highlight of the show, the Red Dress Project is a breathtaking collaborative embroidery masterpiece created by artisans from over 50 countries. Admire this powerful symbol of global creativity and craftsmanship, on display daily throughout the event.

The Ultimate Stitching Event Returns: Stitching 4 All & Craft4Crafters 2025
March 27th–29th, 2025 | Westpoint Arena | 10am–5pm Daily

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Plan Your Visit

The show runs daily from 10am to 5pm, with free parking and tickets available online
or at the door. Whether you're searching for the perfect fabric, tools, or just a day
immersed in stitching inspiration, this event is not to be missed.

 
Visit craft4crafters.co.uk to book your tickets and find out more. 

Join us at the ultimate stitching event of the year!

Brewing Connections in Edenmore Nursing Home

Edenmore Nursing Home has brewed up a fresh idea to help their residents (who they refer to as family members) keep enjoying one of life’s simple pleasures - a coffee bar right in their home!

Thoughtfully named Coombe Coffee - a nod to the seaside town of Ilfracombe in North Devon, where the home is located - the coffee bar is the latest way Edenmore is fostering a continuation of life for those who live in the care home.

When the town centre’s Costa Coffee closed its doors, the team saw an opportunity. They wanted to make sure family members didn’t miss out on their beloved coffee moments, so they went all in—investing in a safe and easy-to-use machine that encourages independence, offers choice and engagement by enabling those to make and decorate their own coffees, just as they would at home.

Registered Manager Gayle Cooper shares “we regularly went into the Ilfracombe for a coffee and were sad when Costa closed, so we decided to bring that experience here! While we still regularly visit other cafes in town, having our own coffee bar means we can enjoy that experience anytime we like, in our own home. Supported by the care team, who guide residents through the different coffee options, syrups and fun decorations like chocolate dusting, residents are encouraged to make independent choices—though lattes seem to be the favourite!

Easily accessible to all in the main hallway of the home, Combe Coffee has become more than just a coffee bar; it’s a hub of daily social interactions for family members, their families and the team, further echoing the home’s vision of recognising the values, beliefs, and identity of each person who calls Edenmore Nursing Home their home.

To find out more about how Edenmore supports the continuation of life through activities, please visit: https://www.edenmorenursinghome.com/activities-in-care/

Ilfracombe Junior School Connects with Edenmore Nursing Home

Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe recently welcomed Year 3 students from Ilfracombe Junior School, who delighted residents with a vibrant musical performance. The residents, affectionately referred to as family members, enjoyed the students’ talents and performance.

Many family members at Edenmore are on their own individual Dementia journey; making the visit especially meaningful due to the song choices which evoked feelings of familiarity and comfort, whilst reminding some family members of cherished memories from their past.

“It was truly heartwarming to see the smiles on our family members’ faces as they listened to the music,” said Gayle Cooper, Registered Manager at Edenmore Nursing Home. “We are so grateful to the students and staff of Ilfracombe Junior School for taking the time to spread such joy and positivity to our team and family members.”

This special event not only strengthened Edenmore’s connection with the Ilfracombe community but also demonstrated the power of music to bring joy and spark memories, whilst forming new intergenerational friendships.

To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

 

 

 

Weathering the storms and Big Garden Birdwatching.

2024 blew out with weather warnings and amber alerts, howling winds, rain and snow November's named storm Bert was followed by Storm Darragh at the beginning of December and the eerie calm yesterday and today, an ominous lead into Storm Éowyn in some parts of the UK Friday and Saturday.

On the bright side, no matter what the weather the birds still came to the feeders. I will once again be joining in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2025 so I hope they all stick around for that.

Want to attract a variety of birds?

By far the favourite food for most of them are Sunflower Hearts but its best to have a variety of birdfood and always keep birdbaths filled up as they need water and love splashing about preening and fluffing their feathers at this time of year

My tips to encourage all types of birds to your garden.

Sunflower hearts - Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Sparrows, Blue Tits, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Greenfinch, Starlings will take over the feeding stations at this time if year.

Peanuts - Blue Tits, Woodpecker, Sparrows, Chaffinch, Robin
 

Niger Seed - Goldfinch, Blue Tit

Sunflower Seeds - Bullfinch
 

Meal Worms - Loved by ground feeders including Robin, Blackbird, Dunnock and Wren
 

Fat balls, Suet cake - all the birds love this

 

Attention -  its time for the Big Garden Birdwatch. Photo copyright Pat Adams North Devon Focus

Attention -  its time for the Big Garden Birdwatch. Photo copyright Pat Adams North Devon Focus

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"Join the world's largest garden wildlife survey 24th-26th January 2025" - Find out more at  RSPB

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"Met Office "Rare red weather warning as Storm Éowyn poses danger to life". 

Red Weather Warnings have been issued with Storm Éowyn forecast to bring disruptive winds as well as heavy rain and snow for some on Friday."
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Tap here to find out if your area is affected

Keep up to date at Met Office.gov.uk

Edenmore Nursing Home Unites for Mental Health Awareness

According to Mind, 1 in 4 people will experience mental health challenges, and Edenmore Nursing Home is passionate about supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.

The North Devon care home invited the Ilfracombe community to join them in supporting mental health awareness. Residents, their families, and the Edenmore team came together to raise funds for Mind through a "Big Brunch." 

Big Brunch for Mental Health Awareness

Residents (known as family members), their families, the local community, and the team tucked into an array of food, from full English breakfast favourites – sausage, bacon, eggs, and all the trimmings – to croissants, pastries, and bagels, with plenty of coffee, tea, and juice. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community, alongside a contribution from Edenmore Care Home, they are pleased to announce that together they raised over £150 to support Mind.

A Big Thank You

Gayle Cooper, Home Manager, at Edenmore Nursing Home, shared, "A big thank you to everyone who joined us, donated to support this cause. This event was a wonderful reminder of the power of coming together, and we’re so proud of what we achieved as a community. We can’t wait for more events in the future to keep making a difference!"

For more information please visit: https://www.edenmorenursinghome.com/

Burton at Bideford. Other Worlds: New Works from the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers

Explore the vibrancy of contemporary printmaking in this exhibition that brings together new work by members of the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers. Introducing an eclectic range of personal, ecological, architectural, and even psychedelic realms, Other Worlds reveals the agility of expression and skilful techniques underpinning printmaking today. 

The Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers is one of the world's premier printmaking organisations, originally founded in 1888. From its home at Bankside Gallery, next to Tate Modern on the South Bank of the Thames, it supports and promotes the full diversity of printmaking practices, encouraging excellence, experimentation and innovation within its membership and through its education and engagement activities.

Other Worlds is the centrepiece of our season celebrating printmaking and printmakers, including artist talks, workshops and demonstrations that will bring the best of contemporary printmaking to the South West. 

  

A General History of Quadrupeds V by Leonie Bradley

 

Other Worlds: New Works from the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers
11th January – 1st March 2025 

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For more details see www.theburton.org