Residents at Newmarket care home had a hoot during RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

Residents at a care home in Newmarket had their binoculars on hand when they took part in this year’s RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

Residents at Care UK’s Kentford Manor, on Jeddah Way, took part in the world's largest garden wildlife survey. This year the residents explored beyond their garden and enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon observing the beautiful wildlife at Lakenheath Fen Nature Reserve.

The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch encourages people throughout the UK to take a closer look at the nature on their doorsteps by counting the different birds, as well as recording any non-bird species such as badgers and hedgehogs, which visit their garden in any one hour.

Tommy Miller, aged 87, said: “It was lovely being out in the open air seeing all those wonderful birds in their natural habitat. We had such a relaxing morning and saw marsh tits, blackbirds, robins, chaffinches and my personal favourite, the great spotted woodpecker.”

Katrina Rayment, General Manager at Kentford Manor, said: “Residents had a wonderful time with their binoculars at the ready at Lakenheath Fen. Everyone enjoyed spotting and naming the many birds and wildlife species which paid us a visit.

“Birdwatching is a peaceful activity that has a calming effect on all that take part, with vibrant colours and distinctive bird calls that provide sensory stimulation. Spending time outside and connecting with nature has great benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing, which is incredibly beneficial for older people, and particularly for those living with dementia.

“We were delighted to be part of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch again this year and to be playing a part in this important national survey. It was great to learn more about our wildlife neighbours!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Kentford Manor incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The building has been configured into a number of suites to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.