RESIDENTS from care homes across the county proudly presented beautiful artwork, fabulous floral arrangements, stunning photography and delicious cakes at The Orders of St John Care Trust’s Wiltshire Autumn Arts and Craft Show in Melksham.

More than 130 residents, guests, employees and volunteers from 14 homes across Wiltshire gathered at Melksham Assembly Hall for the annual event.

Residents have worked on their entries throughout the year as part of the varied activity programmes on offer in the Trust's homes.

One of the highlights of the afternoon was when one of the winners sold her prize-winning piece! A canvass made by Leslie Davies, of Ashwood in Warminster, caught the eye of Tim Cross, who works at The Melksham Assembly Hall, who bought it for £35.

Ashwood will use the money to buy more canvasses to create similar pieces of artwork.

There were 12 categories to enter, including classes for cakes, arts and crafts, sewing and handicrafts, floral arrangements and photography. The entries were judged by Trust staff and members of local community groups.

Sam King, OSJCT’s Assistant Operations Director for Wiltshire, who helped judge one of the categories, said: “The show is all about inspiring our residents to be creative and encouraging them not to lose their passion for making and trying new activities and interests.

“It is lovely to see how much hard work has gone into the amazing entries on display today and the standards are incredibly high – there are some really stunning pieces of work on show.

"What’s also nice is that the categories reflect the diverse range of activities on offer in our homes, and that there really is something for everyone to get involved in.”

Karen Johnson, the Trust’s Volunteer and Events Manager for Wiltshire, who organised the show, added: “It’s just really nice to be able to give our residents the chance to showcase some of their work. The show is also a lovely social occasion and one which we know our residents really look forward to every year.”

Residents enjoyed lunch and refreshments and were entertained by country and western band Sloe Jam.