If you were near Frome Nursing Home on Bonfire Night, you probably saw it; the crowd, the queues, the excitement that practically radiated from the care home. The event kicked off around noon and by the late afternoon, the home’s grounds were absolutely buzzing. Families, friends, and neighbours wrapped up in scarves and cosy coats were streaming in, clutching hot chocolates and chatting as they strolled around. The scent of BBQ filled the air, mixing with laughter and happy sounds of everyone catching up.
Carrie, a care assistant at the home, commented “I would just like to say ‘wow!’ what an amazing evening. In all the time I’ve worked at Frome Nursing Home I’ve never seen so many people. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make this happen. And it was lovely to see so many family members from Catherine House come and join us.”
Cars kept arriving, people kept streaming in, the family members were thrilled by the turnout, but it appeared to be a clear reminder of just how loved Frome Nursing Home and Catherine House Care Home are in the community.
There were bustling market stalls prepared by local business in and around Somerset, brimming with colourful items like sweets, toys, and gift bags. Guests also enjoyed hot sugared donuts and a delicious BBQ, with one guest commenting, “Thanks, it was great! We all enjoyed the night, and that cheese hot dog was a real treat, so tasty!” As 7pm arrived, everyone gathered around for the main event. Excited whispers spread through the crowd, with kids perched on shoulders and eyes wide with anticipation. Suddenly, the first firework shot up, bursting into a shower of colour. The sky filled with reds, blues, and golds, lighting up the night as everyone clapped and cheered together. It was pure magic, a shared moment that made the chilly night feel warm. One visitor who brought her mum along said later, “It was so special to share this moment with her; she loved it. Thank you for making this memory.” That’s what this night was all about; creating memories, connecting with loved ones, and feeling like part of something special. Even those nearby joined in, with one local saying, “Even my neighbour was watching from the window and said it was a good display!”
Once the fireworks wrapped up, people didn’t just rush off. Instead, some headed inside for an “after-party” of sorts. It was the perfect way to wind down, with residents, fondly referred to as family members, and friends all reminiscing on the event and enjoying the cosy warmth with a hot chocolate and a cake.
Even family members who couldn’t come outside for the fireworks felt the love. The team worked tirelessly behind the scenes, making sure everyone was comfortable and included in the spirit of the night. Care assistant Margaret shared, “What an amazing spectacle to see so many people, the smiling faces, the interactions; it made my heart leap tonight. Thank you to each and every one who made this happen, including those who stayed inside to care for those too delicate to be outdoors. Just amazing.”
As people finally drifted home, the night felt like something truly special. Frome Nursing Home didn’t just throw a fireworks event, they gave the community a chance to come together, to celebrate, and to remember what makes Frome feel like home to so many.
Sherin, the Home’s Manager, shared her surprise and gratitude after the event: “I never thought tonight would have such a huge turnout. My dream of being a chipper was lost in transit when a lovely lady had me remake her burger three times! I couldn’t have done this without all of you.” Sherin continued to praise her team, giving a special shoutout to Sharon Chard for her coordination skills, and to Sarah, Kimi, and Lauren, welcomed new faces and potential family members to the event. “I even had job seekers and potential family members making enquiries as I was trying to focus on burgers!” she added, laughing. She also thanked Luke, Martin Jones, Garry, and Dougie for meeting every request, from cutting hedges to clearing trees. The team pulled together seamlessly.
Frome Nursing Home was thrilled to bring the community together for such a memorable evening and extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, as well as the incredible volunteers and team. Special thanks go to those who wrapped up family members warmly for the outdoors, and to those who stayed inside, making sure everyone who didn’t wish to come out felt cosy, happy, and comfortable. Plans are already underway for more community events that celebrate togetherness and create cherished memories.
For more information on Frome Nursing Home please visit www.fromenursinghome.com
For more information on Catherine House Care Home please visit www.catherinehousecarehome.com