Ashby Court Bupa Care Home has put out a festive plea to the local community to send in messages of goodwill to residents this Christmas.

The home knows that opening a Christmas card can fill you with warmth, excitement and the feeling of belonging, which is why the Ashby-based facility is calling on its local community to help residents feel more connected this Christmas.

Ashby Court says it is hoping to end the year on a cheerful note, and the cards received will be opened by residents then placed around the home for everyone to read and enjoy the kind messages shared.

The home says that, knowing that people are thinking of them, will bring comfort and joy to the residents of Ashby Court.

When asked what it means to residents to receive a Christmas card, Home Manager Katherine O'Sullivan, said: "The tradition of sending and receiving Christmas cards at this time of year is one many of our residents have always enjoyed.

"It is the best way of spreading Christmas cheer and keeping connected to those near and far.

"It's a very special feeling to open a card and to know that someone cares about you and wants to wish you well at this time of the year.

"For many, Christmas is a time of joy, celebration and family, but for some it can be a lonely and emotional time, reflecting on loved ones who have passed.

"At Bupa, we do everything we can to ensure residents have a fun-filled Christmas.

"However, for those who are unable to see their families or who don't have any relatives, it can be a difficult time.

"If we can get enough cards, so that each resident has the joy of opening something during the festive season, that would be really special.

"The community has really come together this year, so we're hoping the same spirit can help rally lots of Christmas cheer.

"In these unprecedented times, a show of community support like this would really boost everyone's spirits and make it an even merrier Christmas."

Anyone wishing to send a Christmas card to residents at Ashby Court and Aylesham Court Bupa Care Homes can post one to:

• Ashby Court Bupa Care Home, Tamworth Road, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 2PX
• Aylesham Court Bupa Care Home, 195 Hinckley Road, Leicester Forest East, Leicester, LE3 3PH