There wasn't a dry eye in the house when families were reunited with their loves ones at a care home.

After a year of harsh lockdown restrictions, residents are once again allowed to get close to their nearest and dearest.

Care worker Paula Fagg has worked at Sheppey's Blackburn Lodge in Broadway, Sheerness, for 35 years but said last week was one of the most emotional times of her career.

She said: "It was a very emotional day for everyone with residents breaking down in tears of joy.

"It was a fantastic day for everyone with sons and daughters visiting their parents and sisters being reunited.

"There wasn't a dry eye in the house. It was so emotional and wonderful to see families able to hold hands and be close to their loved ones again."

Sisters Jill Williamson and Jen Waring were thrilled after finally being able to hold their mum Joan Spall’s hand for the first time in months and broke down in tears of joy.

Paula said: "You could see the smiles on their faces. It has been a really long wait but it was definitely well worth it."

Last Monday the guidance on care homes changed to allow two sets of visitors to see a resident. They can touch and hold hands but guests must still wear face shields and gloves.

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