TEA and coffee retailer Whittard of Chelsea is helping to raise the spirits of Wiltshire care home residents who are missing visits from family and friends during lockdown.

The company has given packs of tea and biscuits to all 68 care homes and 14 extra care housing schemes run by The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) to help homes and schemes host afternoon tea treats for residents.

They have been enjoying different flavours from classic blends such as English Breakfast and Earl Grey to unique flavours like Mango & Bergamot green tea and Afternoon Tea - and many homes have used the gift to lay on special afternoon teas, with cake and sandwiches, and create a party atmosphere.

Extra packs of tea and biscuits have also been given for the home's carers, when they get the opportunity to take a break.

Kerry Dearden, Deputy Chief Executive of OSJCT, said: “We are so grateful for this very generous gesture from Whittard of Chelsea. Teams in homes are working incredibly hard during very challenging times to ensure that residents are kept as engaged and busy as possible while visitor access is restricted.

"Special afternoon tea sessions are a perfect way of giving our residents something to look forward to, and a great reminder to enjoy small moments of pleasure."

Nathan Smith, CEO of Whittard of Chelsea, said: “It is our pleasure to support The Orders of St John Care Trust during this challenging time. Hopefully, some great tea and biscuits will help to raise the spirits of both the residents who are unable to see loved ones, and the staff who are doing such a fantastic job across the country.”