Residents at a care home in Omagh were given an early Christmas present this week as Santa made an appearance at Harold McCauley House in the town.
Those in the Co Tyrone nursing home were treated to a festive party at its Killyclogher Road residence, with staff at the home being praised by management after a difficult year for care homes.
Home manager Michelle Murray said that all the staff worked hard to make this seasonal event one to remember.
“The home was decorated beautifully for Christmas and the residents were able to enjoy ‘Santa’s Grotto’ in our recently refurbished summer house.," Michelle said.
“The amazement on the faces of our residents was a sight to see, a real picture, as many of them never imagined they would see a real reindeer
“For Winifred, our resident who has been with us the longest, Santa made it a real red letter day as it was her 99th birthday.
“It really was such a special day, complete with a delicious homemade tea with scones, mince pies, tray bakes and Christmas cake, all delicately prepared by Ruth, our head cook, and her team. So a big thank you to them,” she added.
Harold McCauley House is run by the Presbyterian Church of Ireland, providing nursing care and support primarily for older people in the Omagh area.
The church’s Head of Older People’s Services Denise Keegan said the residents at the home were still talking about it the next day.
“At times like these, and after what everyone has been through these last 20-plus months, having Santa and two reindeers at Harold McCauley, along with DJ Chris as part of our Christmas celebrations, meant such a lot to our residents,” Denise said.
“I was with them the day after and everyone was still talking about it – especially the reindeers,” Denise said.
“The staff over this last while, through the lockdown and the ongoing Covid measures that we have in place, have consistently gone the extra mile to keep residents and colleagues safe and well cared for in these difficult times, which is a great reassurance to families and loved ones.
“They have gone that extra mile once more, making this a Christmas to remember.”
