THE residents of a Silver End care home have celebrated an annual Irish tradition.

Staff and residents of Boars Tye Residential Home, in Boars Tye Road, marked Saint Patrick’s Day on Sunday.

It is a significant cultural event in the Irish calendar which celebrates Saint Patrick, the country’s patron saint, who was a Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland during the fifth century.

The home joined in the festivities because resident David O'Sullivan is Irish.

The lounge was transformed into an Irish bar during the afternoon, while drinks were served.

Braintree and Witham Times: Great - the care home staff at the makeshift bar areaGreat - the care home staff at the makeshift bar area (Image: Boars Tye Residential Home)

Braintree and Witham Times: Happy - Boars Tye Residential Care Home resident David enjoying the dayHappy - Boars Tye Residential Care Home resident David enjoying the day (Image: Boars Tye Residential Care Home)

A spokesman said: "Staff and residents were joined by residents' families for an afternoon of Irish music, dancing and Guinness at our Irish-themed bar. 

"We decorated the lounge with bunting and balloons and invited all the residents up to the bar for a drink which David served.

"David was a publican when he was younger.

"He hadn't lost his barman skills and poured the Guinness perfectly."

They added: "Celebrating events like this is so important for our residents. 

"It was a great afternoon, enjoyed by the residents, family members and staff alike."

The event followed on from the care home’s Comic Relief fundraiser last Friday when residents told jokes, dressed up in silly attire and played games, raising £65.