Rustington Hall is a large nursing and care home run by Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society. Mrs Mosdell said: “As we all know, it has been a very difficult and challenging year for everyone, so we wanted to do something extra special that would be memorable for everyone. Not only was it to be a treat for the residents but it was also to say a huge thank you to our wonderful staff for all their hard work during a very strange and difficult year.”
The afternoon on Tuesday started with residents meeting two reindeer and then having a chat and mince pie with Father Christmas. Later in the day, staff took along their children, who were met by Rusty and given the opportunity of having a photo taken with the bear while sitting a sleigh. The children then went to see, feed and stroke the reindeer before meeting Father Christmas in his grotto, where there were given a selection box and reindeer biscuit.
Mrs Mosdell said: “We worked closely with local businesses to ensure the day really was one to remember. Rustington Bakery baked some lovely reindeer biscuits, Tesco Chichester generously donated the selection boxes, The Butcher and Deli donated a cheese hamper and Just Because created some wonderful balloon displays. We would like to say a big thank you to all of them who helped to make the day so special. With all the smiles and lovely comments we think it is safe to say that all our residents, staff and their children had a truly magical time.”