As always, Christmas celebrations at Sunnybank Residential Home got underway in early December. The home, inside and out, had been beautifully decorated by the staff and welcomed Heart and Soul on Tuesday, December 3, to give their Christmas concert.

The following day it was the annual inspection of the home by the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales. All seemingly went well and no doubt the inspector could not help but be impressed by the festive atmosphere in the home.

On Friday, December 5, Whitland Male Voice Choir arrived to entertain and the next day it was the turn of the Kings Fellowship.

On Sunday, December 8, Friends in Harmony from Haverfordwest gave their Christmas concert and on Monday, December 9, 12 residents, accompanied by staff, travelled to Whitland to see the school production of 'Guys and Dolls'. Having thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon's entertainment, in the evening the residents sat back to be entertained by Dabhand Productions and their Christmas Show.

On the evening of December 11, it was a trip out to see the Christmas lights. This is always a popular event, especially down to Kilgetty to see the award-winning display of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Thomas.

On December 12, it was the turn of Narberth and Whitland Rotary to join the residents for some carol singing, followed by sherry and mince pies.

In the afternoon of Monday, December 16, Rev. Michael Butler, of Saundersfoot, conducted a Christmas service at the home, while the following evening, friends and family joined the residents for a buffet supper followed by entertainment. The MC was Mr. Michael Richards, who introduced the Hand Bell Ringers from Clynderwen and Miss Margaret Adams, of Begelly, who sang two beautiful solos.

The Sunnybank staff, who had won first prize in the Narberth Carnival, once again donned their costumes as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and 'performed' a couple of songs. Carols were also sung throughout the evening and everyone appeared to have an excellent time.

On Wednesday, December 18, 23 residents, accompanied by Mrs. Coaker and staff, travelled by coach to Cafe Beca for a Christmas lunch. Traditional Christmas activities took place, cracker pulling etc., and a thoroughly good time was had by all.

The following morning saw the children from Narberth School at the home performing some of the carols and readings from their carol service. This, as always, was an event which gave the residents great pleasure.

That evening, Templeton Ladies Choir gave what was sadly their last performance at Sunnybank. The residents thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment and the choir will be greatly missed, as they were regular visitors to Sunnybank throughout the year.

On Sunday, December 22, Max and Mary, a popular local duo, helped put the residents in a Christmas mood with a collection of Christmas carols and songs.

On Christmas Day, the Mayor and Mayoress of Narberth, Clr. and Mrs. Eric Feetham, made their traditional visit to Sunnybank; they were closely followed by the man himself, Father Christmas, who distributed gifts to all the residents. A beautiful Christmas lunch was served by the staff and a leisurely afternoon was spent, probably recovering from the hectic few weeks leading up to Christmas!

The New Year has seen the celebration of a special birthday in the home. Miss Anita Lewis celebrated her 90th birthday on January 27 and was joined at Sunnybank for a birthday tea by family, friends and fellow residents.

The staff and residents of Sunnybank would like to thank everyone who helped to make Christmas such a success and look forward to a happy and healthy 2003.