WILTON House in Darlington has been named the overall winner of a Christmas cake competition held across Popular Care and its sister care home groups, Solehawk and Intobeige.
The festive challenge saw facilities from the three organisations put their baking skills to the test, with entries judged on appearance, taste and, crucially, the involvement of residents throughout the entire process.
From planning and baking to decorating and tasting, residents played a central role in bringing each cake to life.
Steve Massey, operations manager at Popular Care, said: “This competition was about so much more than baking the perfect Christmas cake. The most important part of the judging was seeing how residents were involved and engaged every step of the way, and every home should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.
“Choosing a winner was extremely difficult because the standard was so high. Most importantly, it was great fun, brought people together and really captured the spirit of Christmas across all our homes.”
Wilton House impressed the judges with a cake that combined festive flair with excellent flavour, while clearly demonstrating the enthusiasm, creativity and teamwork of residents and staff alike.
Astune Rise care home in Eston, also part of Popular Care, took the prize for top resident involvement.
The competition formed part of a wider programme of festive activities across the groups, designed to encourage creativity, social interaction and shared enjoyment during the lead-up to Christmas.
Wilton House staff member Dawn Webber and resident Lesley Hardy are pictured with the winning cake.