A LOVE of graffiti, languages, photography, dancing and singing have been recognised at a graduation ceremony with a difference.

Residents at Lammermuir House Care Home, Dunbar, have been celebrated for their many and varied achievements over the last year.

The enthusiastic pensioners have added an impressive range of skills to their list of talents by studying new languages, joining bespoke live tours of far-flung places, taking dancing and singing classes, photography courses and have even channelled their inner Banksy by trying out graffiti spray painting!

Guest speakers, including East Lothian countryside ranger David Wild, who gave a talk on local wildlife, and Heather Stenhouse, from Meg’s Flowers & The Wool Shop, who ran a knitting class, visited the home to share their expertise with residents.

The talk proved such a success that Heather is now visiting the residents every fortnight for a new knit and natter activity.

Marie Claire, from Belhaven Smokehouse, brought a selection of fish and cheeses in for a tasting session.

Keiron Mellotte, the care home’s manager, said: “Continuing to learn in older age has many benefits. As well as keeping our brains healthy, acquiring new knowledge gives a real sense of purpose and achievement.

“Our Magic Moments activities programme includes lots of opportunities to get involved, learn new things and above all have great fun together.”

The ‘Love Learning’ event is running in all Four Seasons care homes across the UK, with family, friends and members of the local community invited to the graduation ceremonies to see residents showcase some of their accomplishments and be presented with their certificates of lifelong learning.

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Resident Margaret Gimson, 74, said: “I can’t say I was that keen on school when I was younger but I’ve loved learning lots of new things and feel really proud of myself. My favourite activity has been the dancing sessions; I reckon I’d give those professionals on Strictly a run for their money!”

Meanwhile, 86-year-old resident Joseph Russell added: “They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks but I’ve learnt so many new things this year.

“I can now speak a bit of Spanish and French, know how to keep fit by exercising in my chair, and I even learnt how to make the best pizza in the world from a chef in Rome.”