Gin making and taste testing raises residents’ spirits

A TIPPLE of gin was enjoyed by Bolton care home residents after they concocted their own flavours and took part in a taste test.

Several ladies at Lever Edge Care Home, on Lever Edge Lane, Great Lever, took part in the gin making class with activities coordinator Alix Isherwood.

They chose lemon and pink peppercorn flavours before pouring their creations into oversized glasses adorned with cocktail umbrellas.

Residents Jean Ramsden, 77, Doris Gregory, 93, and Doreen Aspinall, 84, all volunteered for taste testing.

Doris joked: “I may need to try the whole bottle to decide whether I like it or not.

“It’s great to be drinking gin on a Tuesday afternoon. It was a bonus to have the gin in a glass the size of my head. I can’t wait to be dancing on the tables later.”

Doreen said: “I’m very proud we made the flavoured gin ourselves and I’m impressed how well it has turned out.”

Jean added: “The lemon gin is very nice and refreshing.”

Activities coordinator Alix said: “I asked the ladies what they thought about calling their new gin Lever Edge Lush and they loved it.

“Even the peppercorn gin received high praise, despite worries that it was going to be too peppery. One lady said she was pleasantly surprised it had just the right amount in.

“It was an enjoyable activity for everyone to get involved in and has really raised their spirits – excuse the pun! – in these challenging times.”