A Halstead care home has welcomed local nursery children back through its doors after more than two years apart.

Before the pandemic, residents at Colne View, on Dame Mary Walk, were regularly visited by children from Park Pre-School in Halstead.

They took part in intergenerational activities and games, but thise ended abruptly in March 2020.

Over the last two years, the nursery children have only been able to wave through the window, and residents were delighted to see their younger friends in person when they were finally reunited.

As part of the session, residents and children spent time planting sunflower seeds in the home’s garden, which the children will return to watch grow over the coming months.

Resident Brian, 89, said: “It was truly wonderful to see the children and all the energy they have.

“It’s funny how it passes on to you and lifts your spirits.

Christine, 90, added: “It was so lovely to see the children again after such a long time.

“We had such a pleasant morning together in the garden” 

Monica Boldeata, home manager at Colne View, said: “We were thrilled to welcome the children from Park Pre-School back through our doors after so long apart.

“Intergenerational activities form a huge part of life here at Colne View and can be incredibly beneficial for both younger and older people.

“These kinds of relationships provide older people with a sense of purpose, and a chance to share their skills and knowledge.

“We had a wonderful afternoon together and are very much looking forward to seeing the children again very soon when they come to check on their sunflowers.”