RESIDENTS at a Salisbury care home got their skates on when they took to the ice for a “magical” day out.

Seven residents from Braemar Lodge enjoyed an “absolutely fabulous” experience.

Accompanied by staff, they ‘skated’ on ice in their wheelchairs at Planet Ice’s Olympic sized 60 x 30 metre rink in Basingstoke.

For Betty Winter, 88, it was the first time she had ever been to an ice rink.

“I’ve had a wonderful time and thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope to return again,” said Betty.

Fellow resident Dennis Johnson, 86, last skated 40 years ago. “I never thought it would be possible to get on the ice again. It’s been great fun,” he added.

The trip was organised by Colten Companion Karen Pinhorn, a keen ice skater in her spare time.

Alison Bremner, home manager, said: “This has been one of the best things we’ve organised. It was a magical day out and an absolutely fabulous experience.

“The trip is a great example of how frailty and lack of mobility need not stand in the way of new and exciting experiences. It also shows how our companion teams look to make wishes come true. Out of the ordinary events are possible even though you may live in a care home and be an older person.

“It’s given the home a real buzz. Everyone is still talking about it and we will certainly be paying a return visit in the future.”