On Saturday 29th June actor Hugh Bonneville known for Downton Abbey, Notting Hill and Paddington visited Caring Homes’ Blenheim Court in Liss, to lead in the opening of a family fun day.

The local care home took part in National Care Home Open Day, which this year celebrated the role of Arts in Care. The day was designed to promote the arts through music, acting, friendship and making connections, bringing the community together over shared experiences.

Delighted to be at the event, Hugh shared; “‘Places like Blenheim Court play an increasingly important role in our society, providing care and support for our loved ones. What a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the work of everyone involved.”

Hugh was a huge hit with guests, spending time talking with each resident and taking a tour of the home whilst also visiting one of the older residents in her room. He entertained the guests by joining the Ukulele Band and posed with many who asked for selfies and photos.

Plenty of activities were enjoyed by residents, families and members of the community including; The Jam Busters Ukulele Band providing live music, a BBQ, refreshments, side stalls and Millers Ark; a mobile farm who will be bringing goats, guinea pigs, lambs, pigs, rabbits and a baby donkey.

The event was also fundraising through the running of a raffle for The Rosemary Foundation, a local charity in Petersfield offering palliative care for the local community; “Hospice at Home” and Puddle Ducks, the local pre-school nursery in Liss, who are hoping to create a garden area for the children. Prizes won by lucky participants included a case of nine fine wines, a Champneys spa day and a round of golf for four at Petersfield Golf Club, with all proceeds going to the two named local charities. Funds raised totaled £641.00, which delighted representatives of the charities involved.