A home care service had a seasonal surprise for regulars at an "amazing" centre.

The Lowestoft Centre for Over 60s received an early Christmas treat – thanks to staff at Kingsley Home Care.

Home carers Nikki Biggs and Emma Knights dressed as a festive elf and reindeer and were joined by Father Christmas - volunteer Jane Johnston - to distribute gifts to those attending the centre’s Christmas lunch on Monday (December 19).

Kingsley Home Care, part of Kingsley Healthcare Group - a neighbouring company to the centre on Clapham Road South - also funded the lunch much to the surprise and delight of everyone attending.

Centre chairman Rita Carter said: "People paid their lunch money but we have been able to give them a £5 refund thanks to the generosity of Kingsley Home Care."

Lowestoft Journal: The Kingsley Home Care team handing out gifts before the meal.The Kingsley Home Care team handing out gifts before the meal. (Image: Kingsley Healthcare)

Kingsley Home Care was launched in Diss last year and because of its success a second branch opened earlier this year in Lowestoft, offering care in people’s homes across Lowestoft, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Beccles and Southwold.

Mrs Carter said: "Kingsley Healthcare has been extremely generous to us, sponsoring our Christmas dinner on two previous occasions.

"It’s great that their newest venture, Kingsley Home Care, has done the same this year.

"I think home care is a brilliant service, enabling people to stay in their home as long as possible." 

She said the centre, which opens from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday to Fridays, was needed more than ever due to the cost-of-living crisis.

"We have had people coming in just for a coffee and to keep warm," Mrs Carter said.

"The number of people who attend the centre has not really recovered from the Covid lockdowns and I would like to invite people to come along and give us a try.

"We do a two-course lunch at noon for £5.50."

Kingsley marketing director Stephen Pullinger, who dropped in for the festive lunch, said: "The centre does an amazing job in the community and it’s a pleasure to be able to support their Christmas event again.

"Kingsley has grown into a national care provider but we are still passionate about supporting the community where we started, in Lowestoft."

Kingsley Home Care regional operations director Georgina Johnston said: "It’s important for us to be at the heart of the community and we are always happy to hear about worthy causes to support.

"We are thrilled by the early feedback we have had for Kingsley Home Care.

"Like our care homes, we are determined to be people’s first choice and a name to trust."