As winter turned to spring last month, sunnier days went hand-in-hand with an increase in activity across all Westward Care locations.

Starting March off right at Headingley Hall, Shrove Tuesday was celebrated with some obligatory pancake-tossing, with residents and even Headingley Hall chef Simon trying their hand at the pan flip! And there was more sweetness in store at the home the rest of the month, with winners of the Headingley Hall bingo winning some chocolatey prizes and the monthly Headingley Hall coffee morning bringing delicious cupcakes made specially by Simon.

There were a number of visitors at Headingley Hall in March, with Brandon from Gfitness coming in to give a fitness introduction to residents; Bradley the Busker entertaining with a musical performance; and furry friends Graham the retired guide dog and three-month-old pooch Dottie making appearances to brighten up residents' day. Not that the days weren't already noticeably brighter, with Headingley Hall residents and staff flower pressing and putting together beautiful flower arrangements to celebrate the coming of spring.

Residents at The Cedars also got creative in celebration of spring's arrival last month, with a group painting session resulting in a series of fingerprint flower canvases, which are now displayed on the walls at the home. The brilliant Brendan showed some creative flair, too, creating a beautiful (and delicious!) fruit centrepiece for residents to enjoy.

The Cedars got its first visit from Diggi's Den last month, with Angela bringing in some fluffy friends including rabbits and guinea pigs for a cuddle from both residents and staff, while there was much knitting happening at the home throughout the month, with a number of residents putting their needles together to make blankets and other homemade garments.

Pennington Court also saw its share of knitting in March, from both residents and staff. (Social Activities Coordinator Lyn, who was taught to knit by Pennington resident Margaret, made her own knitted bunny.) March also brought darts; a quiz that tested residents' knowledge of the decades; and Tuesday music sessions, with everyone picking out favourite songs to sing along and dance to.

St Patrick's Day was a particularly activity-packed day at Pennington Court last month, with a history of St Patrick's Day and a virtual trip to Ireland followed by live music and a performance from the Nadine Martin Academy of Irish Dancing. A great day was had by all!