Following the success of our summer competition ‘Stow in Bloom’, we launched our very first winter competition ‘Stow in the Snow’ to get everyone into the festive spirit. This competition was designed to provide meaningful Christmas activities within the homes and engage staff, residents and their families all together at this special time of year.
Categories were chosen by staff and residents ranging from best ‘Winter Wonderland’, to best table decoration or festive floral arrangement, there was something for everyone to get involved with. The ‘Best Decorated Christmas Tree’ across our group was shared on social media and the winner chosen by staff, relatives and members of the public.
The winners were decided by judges Julie Martin, Provider Support Lead at Suffolk County Council and Zoe Lawes-Pusey, Co- Founder of EmZo Gift and Home in Suffolk who were invited to judge the competition. They toured all 5 of our homes awarding rosettes for first, second and third place entries with the winners from each home were then taken forward to be judged “Best in Stow”. After some extremely difficult decisions and much deliberation the overall winners were decided. Stowlangtoft Hall claimed this year’s trophy with 4 overall wins across the group for ‘Best Decorated Christmas Cake’, ‘Best Christmas Jumper’, ‘Best Gingerbread House’ and ‘Best Homemade Christmas Card’.
The competition sparked some really innovative ideas and unique interpretations of the categories at each home with residents, visitors and staff all eagerly anticipating the judging day to show off their wonderful creations. The event was a huge success with excitement and enthusiasm along with some light competitive spirit. It was a wonderful way for staff, residents and member of many local community groups to come together and enjoy the festive season.
