Fundraising at The Elms retirement park in Lincolnshire was in to support their minibus appeal.
Organisers went into free farm food tastings plus competitions and a series of fun challenges.
And when the brakes were finally put on the day, residents were delighted to fuel their minibus fund.
It means that homeowners at The Elms in Torksey can now continue looking forward to regular outings, expeditions and shopping trips using their own dedicated transport.
Planning the gala day and putting it into action were members of the park’s 14-strong minibus fundraising committee, some of whom also work as volunteer drivers of the vehicle.
Residents at The Elms bought their first minibus almost 20 years ago with a view to get out and about.
Replacement vehicles and running costs are funded entirely by money raised through various events, and by donations from the family-run park business.
The residents’ current minibus was acquired two years ago, and is the largest to 16 passengers on their regular forays from the park.
Tracey Coulson, a directo residents of the 340 homes on the park:
“There is a fantastic community atmosphere here, and the minibus is a great way for people together,” she said.
“It also plays an important part in the social life of many residents by ensuring that there are plenty of regular opportunities for people to meet up and share new experiences.
“We were delighted to supply marquees for the gala day which drew hundreds of guests including residents’ friends and relations as well as members of the local community,” Tracey added.
Tracey and her colleague Emma added to booth in which residents could be pictured with a variety of props and disguises.
As well as the mobile zoo which included a python, bearded dragon lizard, owl and a giant snail, the gala day offered cake and wine stands, a tombola and a silent auction.
The Elms has been under the Kinch family’s ownership for over 35 years, and its park homes for people aged 50-plus are located in 65 acres of landscaped grounds.
There is more information about the park on its website at www.elmsretirementpark.co.uk.
