There is a sense of excitement in the air at White Lodge Residential Care Home as we prepare for one of the highlights of our year: the East Preston Festival, taking place from 5th to 14th June.
This year is particularly special as the village celebrates the festival’s landmark 45th anniversary, promising ten days of incredible entertainment, tradition, and community spirit.
For White Lodge, however, there is a little extra “friendly” pressure this year – we have a title to defend!
Looking Back: Our Award-Winning Scarecrows
Last year, the White Lodge community was beaming with pride after taking home first prize in the Scarecrow Competition. The theme was “Games: Old and New,” and our residents truly rose to the challenge. The project was a beautiful trip down memory lane. Residents shared stories of their favourite childhood pastimes, from football and classic board games to the elegance of maypole dancing. Our dedicated team then brought those memories to life, using donated clothes to dress our straw-filled friends.
The final display didn’t just win a trophy; it created a wonderful bridge to our neighbours, as passers by stopped to take photos and share a smile with our nostalgic scene. It was a true testament to what White Lodge can achieve through teamwork and creativity.
2026: East Preston Goes Wild!
This year’s theme has officially been announced: “East Preston Goes Wild.” It’s a fantastic theme that encourages us all to embrace nature, adventure, and the great outdoors.
The residents and team are already brainstorming how to interpret this theme. While we are keeping our specific plans under wraps for now to surprise the judges, we can promise that our entry will be full of the same heart that won us the gold last year.
Why Community Connection Matters
Participating in the East Preston Festival is about so much more than winning a competition. For our residents, these activities are vital because they provide a sense of purpose and inclusion. Being part of such a significant village-wide event serves as a reminder to our residents that they remain an integral part of the East Preston community.
Beyond the social benefits, these projects offer essential cognitive engagement. The entire event – stretching from the initial brainstorming and storytelling sessions to the tactile process of crafting – keeps our residents’ minds active and sharp.
Finally, the festival brings a unique intergenerational joy to our home. We love seeing the faces of local children and families as they enjoy our displays, fostering a sense of belonging and happiness throughout our home.
White Lodge is a Residential Care Home based near Littlehampton in West Sussex. If you have any questions about our activities or are interested in learning more about our home and the care we provide, please don’t hesitate to contact our team: 01903 789000.
