With festival season officially under way, two care homes in Kingston-Upon-Thames are welcoming the local community for a fun-filled afternoon of food and celebration.

Care UK's Sherwood Grange and Galsworthy House will open their doors to families and neighbours for free food festivals, inviting guests to tuck in and celebrate the nation's shared love of great cuisine, community and connection.

On Friday 7^th August from 2.30pm–4.30pm, visitors to Sherwood Grange, on Robin Hood Lane, can look forward to a delicious barbecue, refreshments and live entertainment in the garden from local saxophonist, Kit Packham.

A light will also be shone on sustainability, showing how thoughtful food choices can support a more environmentally aware community.

Resident Patrick Doolan, 89, said: "I am really looking forward to this party! The chef always does a delicious barbecue, and it is great when the local community come in and join our events."

On Friday 7^th August from 2pm-4pm, Galsworthy House, on Kingston Hill, will be celebrating its diverse community with a vibrant "Market Around the World" experience, showcasing the many cultures represented by its team.

Guests will be able to sample a selection of traditional dishes, including jerk chicken, Filipino favourites, mango lassi, and vote for their favourite dish, with a prize awarded to the winner. The Mayor will also be in attendance to judge four resident dishes.

The events are part of the 'A Taste of Home' initiative, which will see Care UK homes across the country host foodie-themed celebrations and showcase what life in a care home is really like.

Each festival will offer sustainable, community-focused activities while championing the diversity and creativity within the homes, from residents' favourite recipes to seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Malgo Wcislo, Home Manager at Sherwood Grange, said: "We're delighted to be hosting our very own food festival!

"We are part of a strong community here in Kingston Vale, and days like this are a wonderful way of bringing people together to celebrate our love of food while giving residents the opportunity to share their favourite recipes and traditions with younger generations."

Andreea Tiple, Home Manager at Galsworthy House, added: "The afternoon not only promises a lot of laughter, but it is also an excellent way for residents to meet and mingle with lots of new faces – and some familiar ones. We can't wait to welcome everyone through the doors."

To find out more about A Taste of Home, please visit careuk.com/a-taste-of-home.

Sherwood Grange and Galsworthy House have been designed to encourage residents to lead active and fulfilling lives while remaining as independent as possible in a safe environment. The homes provide full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.

To find out more about homes in Kingston, please visit careuk.com/kingston.