Mayor officially opens Smyth Lodge

Home news

Apr 29, 2019

The people of Sidcup celebrated the grand launch of the town’s newest care home, with the help of some special guests.

Smyth Lodge was opened by the Mayor of Bexley, Councillor Brian Bishop, and Sheila Hannam, the first resident to move into Smyth Lodge.

Visitors were greeted by professional singer, Chris Till, who performed a variety of hits, and enjoyed watching the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon and unveiling of the plaque.   

During the event, Smyth Lodge announced the winners of their recent local heroes competition, where Sidcup residents were asked to nominate deserving people or groups from the community. Coming in first place was the Kingswood Shetland Ponies, which offers therapy to school and care homes in the area, followed by the Pop-in-Parlour Ladies in second place, and The Bexley & Sidcup Lions Club in third. 

Residents and guests had the opportunity to meet the friendly ponies, Dotty and Blossom, from the Kingswood Shetland Ponies, and were able to polish their cake-decorating skills during a special workshop. 

Guests also enjoyed games, including a demonstration of Smyth Lodge’s interactive ‘magic table’, which provides stimulating activities for those living with dementia.

Those who attended the event also had the chance to meet the friendly team at Smyth Lodge and take a tour of the new care home, as well as enjoy an afternoon high tea specially prepared by the home’s chefs.

Lorraine Eastmead, home manager of Smyth Lodge, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Bexley to officially open the home and mark this important milestone. It was made even more special as he opened the home alongside Smyth Lodge’s first resident, Sheila. 

“The residents had a fantastic time celebrating, and we were so pleased to be joined by so many local people on this very special occasion. To everyone, from the Kingswood Shetland Ponies to the Mayor, we’d love to say a big thank you. After such a successful event, we are already looking forward to our next celebration!”