Elderly folk at a care home received a bloomin' brilliant surprise when baskets of vibrantly coloured flowers were dropped off by the nearby Homebase store.

Homebase in Sittingbourne donated more than 20 trays of flowers and hanging baskets to Elvy Court Care Home, which is in lockdown because of coronavirus.

And as the weather warms up, residents at the Sittingbourne home will be able to admire the gifts grow, after a couple popped round to do some planting.

Daughter of Mildred, a resident, Jan Challens and husband Phil spent two days in the garden, digging and arranging the flowers, but did not go into the building, in keeping with the social distancing restrictions.

The home's usual gardener is not visiting because of the restrictions.

Rhiannon Mount, wellbeing and activities co-ordinator at the London Road home, said: "Jan and Phil just wanted to help and do something to say thank you. They have even offered to maintain the garden while the gardener isn't coming. It is looking very nice. Residents were looking outside their windows watching them."

Although visitors are barred from entering, to reduce the spread of the virus, letters and drawings from primary school children, as well as Skype calls with loved ones, are keeping everyone inside entertained.

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