Residents got a visit from the animals as a special treat

Residents at a Doncaster care home received a visit from cuddly aplacas for a special party.

Quarryfields in Balby held its annual summer party, which saw residents, families and colleagues get together for an afternoon filled with live music and dancing, interactive activities and even a visit from the two alpacas from a neighbouring village.

The party, organised by the home’s activities team, returned to Quarryfields for its fourth consecutive year, and gave people living at the home an opportunity to spend time with each other and their families, while enjoying entertainment and activities in the sunshine.

The highlight of the day was the visit from Lenny and Alan, two alpacas from nearby Tickhill Alpacas.

The animals were specially selected as they are used to busy and loud environments - and this was their third visit to the home.

Ian, who lives at the home, especially requested their return at this year’s party, and residents enjoyed petting and feeding Lenny and Alan.

The party also featured live performances from Emerald Dance Class in Rotherham, arranged by activities team member Emma, who works alongside the group.

The performers got everyone up dancing and led sing-alongs to the latest hits, as well as songs specially chosen by the residents themselves.

Aurora, who also lives at Quarryfields, ran a temporary tattoo stall for residents and colleagues, while others enjoyed food and garden games such as stand-up bingo, bat and ball games, giant dominoes, and football, giving people plenty of opportunities to socialise and have fun outdoors.

To end the day, an ice cream van visited the home, giving everyone an opportunity to cool down with a sweet treat.

Quarryfields, part of leading complex care provider Exemplar Health Care, provides nursing care for adults living with complex needs including learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorder.

Courtney, Activities Team member at Quarryfields care home, said: “Seeing everyone enjoying themselves is what our summer party is all about, and it was particularly lovely to welcome the alpacas back – Lenny and Alan were certainly the stars of the day and brought many big smiles on residents’ faces”