CARE home workers across the county gave residents the royal wave as they were applauded for their dedication.

Bunting and balloons delighted dozens of elderly people as their helpers were hailed on Care Home Open Day, which drew attention to the services’ crucial community role.

The national event on Friday pivoted this year around the theme of ‘celebration’, which was channelled by many centres through the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Wendy Pill, activities assistant at Sanctuary Care's Wantage Nursing Home, said: “Our residents adore The Queen and all that she stands for so they all thoroughly enjoyed our Care Home Open Day celebrations. It was a lovely day filled with smiles.”

Residents at the centre in Garston Lane wore hand-crafted crowns for a patriotic tea party, ate homemade fish and chips and enjoyed live music.

The Meadows home in Didcot held an indoor garden fete for residents, relished by friends Veronica Coatsworth and Eileen West who got into the summer spirit by trying on colourful straw hats.

Wigs were the headwear of choice for many residents at Old Station House in Abingdon, which put on a 1950's-themed party featuring activity co-ordinator Jeff Denton as Elvis.

Stirlings care home in Wantage also joined in with the celebrations, putting on a Mad Hatter's tea party.