Residents at a recently opened care home near Sandbach have been kept entertained over the summer with an array of local performers putting on a show.

Staff at Elworth Grange Care Home hope that the performances will not only keep residents happy but also ensure they remain connected to the community during very uncertain times.

Frankie Durrant, the activities coordinator at the home, told Sandbach Nub News: "Working within current covid restrictions we are finding innovative ways to ensure we keep a link with the community."

"By doing that we're also supporting people in the community. I put a post on Facebook originally a couple of months ago asking if there are any entertainers, musicians; basically anyone who could perform in a suitable and safe way."

Performers have included an Elvis impersonator, a 16-year-old saxophone player and a musician who sings musical numbers.

Those who perform for residents are paid for their time. "This is people's livelihood's and we want it to be of mutual benefit," Frankie explained.

She said the performances have come to be something residents are "really looking forward in the week" and they can enjoy it from inside if the weather is poor.

Frankie added: "Our aim is to build up this link with the community of Sandbach and it being like a two-way benefit with residents."

Elworth Grange, which is owned by Ideal Carehomes and located off Booth Lane, opened its doors in July as a "luxury care home" with residents enjoying a "person-centred approach" to their care.

Frankie said: "Person-centred care means that there isn't one rule for all, we are all different people in life. We're never to assume that people of a certain age are all going to be into the same thing or have the same interests and hobbies."

She believes that the diverse range of performances put on for residents so far has reflected this mix of tastes.

Frankie also says the Sandbach community have been very generous since their opening. "I posted on Facebook asking if people had any cuttings to help us build up our sensory garden. I was inundated with responses and the generosity of Sandbach people."

She added: "We're buzzing from how warmly we've been welcomed by the people here."