PIZZA, PASTA, TIRAMISU FOR CARE HOME RESIDENTS

Residents at a Wellington care home have had a taste of sunshine to chase away the winter blues with some authentic Italian cuisine, prepared for them by the staff of Taunton restaurant ‘Ciao Amore.’

The activities team at Camelot House and Lodge organised the Italian Day as the latest in a series of international cultural days for the enjoyment of the people with dementia who live at the home.

The suggestions came from care-workers Federica Cherchi and Carla Farris, who are both of Italian heritage and passionate about genuine Italian cooking.

Activities co-ordinator, Richard Dempslake, said: “The team from Ciao Amore were so great with our residents – even supporting them in choosing toppings for their choice of pizza – so big thanks to proprietors Meena and Kishore Kapoor and commis chef Ahmed Sameer.

“There were amazing Italian appetisers, two delicious pasta dishes to choose from, a very yummy tiramisu for dessert and Italian blush wine with lemonade to wash it all down.

“The dining room was decked out with the familiar checked red and white tablecloths, Italian flag bunting and music chosen by our Italian staff.

“In the afternoon we watched a replay of the 2006 World Cup – which Italy won – and everyone waved Italian flags and enjoyed some lovely Italian cheeses.”

Federica Cherchi and Carla Farris kept people amused with an Italian quiz, which included a language round that enabled everyone to learn some useful Italian phrases.

Camelot House and Lodge are run by the award-winning Camelot Care Group, who have other specialist dementia care homes in Bridgwater and Plymouth. For further information see www.camelotcare.co.uk