STAFF at a care home in Innerleithen staged a festive intergenerational party this week.

And guest of honour was none other than Santa.

Father Christmas came down the St Ronan's Care Home chimney on Wednesday morning - much to the delight of residents and visiting children from nearby nurseries.

Donna Leslie from St Ronan's Care Home told us: "Santa joined the residents and children to hand out gifts.

"There were also craft tables laid out so that residents and the children could interact and create some little projects together.

"This was a lovely morning to end this year’s intergenerational workshops.

"It is evident that relationships are beginning to form and flourish."

This week's festive treat was the fourth intergenerational workshop to be held at the Innerleithen care home this year.

Recent research has found that pre-school children and the elderly can both benefit from joint activities.

Earlier in the year both young and old enjoyed visits from Zoolab creatures and miniature ponies, as well as a Halloween party.

Following Wednesday's visit from Santa the elderly residents and nursery children enjoyed some drinks and cake.

Donna added: "The residents and children love to see each other and there is a lot of happiness and laughter within the home when these two groups come together."