RESIDENTS at a Dawlish care home enjoyed a red carpet event to celebrate its first Achievement Awards.

Claremont Manor, which opened in 2024, pulled out all the stops for the special black tie evening.

More than 100 nomination slips were returned with staff, those living in the home and their relatives keen to recognise the people who make life there so special.

The five awards for those living at Claremont included the ‘Early Bird’ award won by early riser Edgar Forth, and the Social Butterfly award for Pam Sims, who was described as “full of sparkle” and someone who has “spread love, friendship and care”.

Viv Whitehead received the Best Storyteller Award, Jenny Lawson was presented with the Kindest Heart Award and Keith Wallace received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The evening began with a welcome from Manager Carla Bowman, before comedian Tom Glover took to the stage to introduce 11 award categories and handed out certificates, trophies, flowers, and hampers to the winners.

Carla said: ‘Our home is filled with wonderful people, each bringing their own stories, humour, kindness and personality.

‘It was incredibly touching to read the nominations and see how much thought and love had gone into every one. We loved seeing everyone dressed up, walking the red carpet with their families.

‘Every person nominated gives something unique to our home, and we hope the evening made them feel as loved and valued as they make those around them feel each day. It was a celebration we will remember for a very long time.’

Staff were recognised across six areas, with Holly MacGregor receiving the Biggest Heart Award, Sarah Lawson, named Master of Multitasking, and Amy Brookes taking home the Patience of a Saint Award.

The Best One-Liner Award went to Lisa Wilkins, Sham Jayawardane was named the home’s Smile Maker, and the Above and Beyond Award was jointly presented to Cath Donnelly and Orsi Balla after the judging panel found it impossible to choose between them.