The Lakes Care Home proudly hosted its very own Pride Festival, bringing together residents, families, and staff for a joyful day of music, colour, and community spirit.

The idea for the celebration came from Home Manager, Nikkie Millar, who asked the activities team to organise a Pride event. While many care homes mark the occasion with guest entertainers, The Lakes added a unique twist of its own.

The home’s fabulous Bursar, Lloyd, who has a background in acting and performance — including roles in drag and even as the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz — decided to step into the spotlight. With wigs, heels, makeup, and costumes at the ready, a new star was born: Pepper Mills.

Pepper did not take to the stage alone. She was joined by the glamorous Elektra Lux, played by Lloyd’s partner, Alex Zarb, who brought sparkle, energy, and a touch of technical wizardry to the event. Together, they created a dazzling cabaret that had the whole home buzzing with excitement.

The event generated so much anticipation that several staff who were not on shift came along to enjoy the festivities, and families of all ages joined in, from young children to grandparents. This outpouring of support reflected the enthusiasm and community spirit surrounding the Pride celebration.

Although a sudden downpour meant moving the festival indoors, spirits stayed high. Pepper Mills wowed the audience with classic hits including:

I’m a Woman

Stand By Your Man

I Am Woman

My Heart Belongs to Daddy

All That Jazz

Man, I Feel Like a Woman

Elektra Lux also had everyone up and moving with a lively dance-along to The Macarena.

The day was filled with laughter, applause, and a true celebration of equality and inclusivity — values at the very heart of The Lakes. Residents, families, and staff agreed that the performance was a triumph and a memorable way to mark Pride.

Reflecting on the event, Nikkie said:
“It was such a special day. Pride is about celebrating everyone for who they are, and Pepper and Elektra brought that message to life with warmth, humour, and incredible talent.”

The Lakes Care Home is proud to stand in support of diversity and even prouder of the way the home came alive with joy, unity, and a wonderful sense of community during this Pride celebration.