A CARE home in Swindon was the unlikely venue for a pyjama party this week, with staff and residents wearing their PJs for the day.

The residents at Church View also watched a scary movie and enjoyed a ‘midnight feast’ at supper time.

The home, in Rainer Close, was celebrating its annual Hug Day – a day of hugs and love for every resident.

Residents had voted for the theme they wanted to celebrate the day and settled on a midsummer pyjama party theme.

Jules Bottazzi, of Hallmark Healthcare, said: “Hug Day is an important part of the social calendar at Church View, as it’s a great excuse to make sure all the residents get a much-needed cuddle... and it’s also a fantastic reason for a party!”

The Hug Day concept was the brainchild of Sheena Tipples, a registered nurse at another Hallmark Healthcare home, as a way to have fun and bring residents and staff even closer together.

Research undertaken by the University of North Carolina has shown that a hug is good for your health as it reduces stress levels, blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.