A WEEK of festive entertainment – including ballroom dancing and a visit from a donkey – helped get Poole hospice residents and their families in the mood for Christmas.

Musician Kitty Stewart kicked off proceedings at the Forest Holme Hospice on Friday, December 15, with her folk pop repertoire on the ukulele.

Then, regular on the Strictly Come Dancing tour circuit, dancer Oliver Beardmore, and partner Maria Cristina Spoti rumbaed their way around the Christmas tree on Tuesday, December 19.

Strictly tour dancer Oliver Beardmore and partner Maria Cristina Spoti wowed residents and staff with their performance

Oliver said: “After all the performances I’ve been lucky enough to do this year, this was definitely the most fulfilling and emotional.

“Sharing the joy of dance with the amazing patients, families and staff at Forest Holme Hospice was such a pleasure – a great reminder to hug your loved ones extra tight and not take a moment for granted.”

Conducted by Forest Holme’s very own Dr Kate, the Bovington Military Wives Choir performed in the hospice courtyard for patients and staff on Wednesday, December 20, while uplifting 1940s nostalgia came courtesy of the Land Girls on Thursday, December 21.

The Bovington Military Wives Choir, conducted by Dr Kate

Kirsty Perks, corporate and community fundraiser, said: “We hope these events helped to raise Christmas cheer for those in our care during the festive season, as well as creating some long-lasting memories for their families who are with us over Christmas.

“A visit from the assisted therapy donkey Pedro never fails to raise a smile.”

Dancers Oliver Beardmore and partner Maria Cristina Spoti