A care home in Sidcup has hosted an emotional drive-through visiting event, allowing 26 families to reunite with their elderly loved ones.

There were emotional scenes as families paraded past Sunrise of Frognal on Wednesday with cars decorated with messages of love, bunting and posters dedicated to the residents living there.

The care home has been closed to all visitors since lockdown began in mid-March, so the drive-through event offered residents the chance to reunite in person for the first time in three months.

Residents of the care home were safely seated outside the entrance of the home, whilst families remained in their cars and slowly paraded past, meaning the whole visit was socially distanced.

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Mel Boynton, the daughter of one resident, said the drive-through visit to see her mum had been the "social event of my year!"

“Once on site, the car park at Sunrise of Frognal had a carnival feel. It was wonderful to see mum and the staff who continue to care for her."

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Mel said she really appreciated how much effort must have gone into the organisation, and was thankful for the care home for making possible.

Residents from all living accommodations at the home took part, including those living with dementia.

This led to one extremely emotional reunion after a resident called her daughter by name, recognising her after three months apart!

Residents and families also enjoyed prosecco and strawberries, and the care home said there was many smiles and happy tears.

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Tanya Riding, the director of community relations at Sunrise of Frognal, commented: "The weather pulled through for our fantastic event, after it had been torrential rain and lightning just an hour before.

"Everyone was so happy, and in many cases happy tears were shed.

“We had many lovely comments from family about the event, but largely heartfelt thanks to our team for looking after their loved ones so well during the past three months.

“We know this visit meant so much to both residents and their families. We can’t wait to welcome them back properly when it is safe to do so.”

The care home said the safety of residents was always their top priority, but was delighted at the success of the event.

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Libby Hills, another daughter of one of the residents, said she wanted to thank the team for organising the get together.

"It was fantastic to see mummy (looking so glam and well!) and gave us all a huge boost. The event was so well organised, and the bubbly was an added bonus!

“Please send our thanks to everyone at Sunrise of Frognal for this special event and for all your hard work in making it a memorable day for us all.”