Crandon Springs Care Home, part of Barchester Healthcare, brought joy, colour and community spirit to this year's Wells City Carnival with its first ever entry, delighting residents, staff and crowds alike.

Carnival season is a much-loved tradition in Somerset, drawing thousands of spectators every year and raising money for local charities and good causes.

On Friday 14 November, five excited Crandon Springs residents boarded the home's minibus, transformed especially for the occasion with twinkling fairy lights, a glittering disco ball, and photo displays showcasing the diverse activities residents enjoy year-round, from gardening and arts and crafts to pet therapy, baking, music and community outings.

A large banner proudly shared the Wells-based home's carnival theme: "Celebrating Life, Care and Community."

Dressed in party glasses, feather boas and waving pompoms, residents were cheered all along the procession route. For 99-year-old Greta, it was an unforgettable first: "Well that was very enjoyable, and something different to do because I've never been to a carnival before!"

Other residents joined the Crandon Springs Activities Team in the crowd to soak up the atmosphere. They waved to performers, posed for photos with carnival characters, including Mr Blobby and some particularly friendly dinosaurs, and enjoyed being part of one of Somerset's best-loved community traditions.

The idea to take part in the carnival came from resident Jane, whose former history of fundraising with Save the Children in Suffolk included taking part in her local carnival.

"Will it be fun, was always the first question," she said, "and I knew taking part in the Wells City Carnival would be a wonderful way for residents and staff to have some fun together while telling the community about our home."

Crandon Springs General Manager, Meg Cleal, said: "We are incredibly proud of our residents and thrilled to have shared this experience with them. Life enrichment is at the heart of everything we do at Crandon Springs, and taking part in the Wells City Carnival was a perfect example of how we support residents to stay active, connected and joyful.

"The smiles, the laughter and the great sense of community spirit made the evening truly special. Thanks to everyone who waved and cheered us on as we drove the carnival route - we had a fabulous time."

Crandon Springs Care Home hopes this will be the beginning of a new annual tradition, one that celebrates not only carnival season, but the meaningful lives of those who call the home their own.