IT'S been a lonely time for the elderly as they spent months alone after care homes stopped family members and friends visiting.

But as lockdown eases and a new normal begins, residents at White Lodge Care Home got the chance to see their loved ones.

It was 12 long weeks until Jenny Barrett and her daughter were reunited in the garden of the Braydon care home, near Swindon.

Jenny, 79, had relied on Skype to keep in touch with her daughters through lockdown.

She said: “There is nothing like seeing family in person.”

They sat on chairs three metres apart in the garden.

Her daughter Jane Harris said: “It was a long-awaited emotional reunion and actually I can’t wait for the day when we can give mum a great big hug.”

In the garden, staff set up tables and chairs which are cleaned between family visits in order to keep the environment safe and hygienic for everyone.

Staff members have been moved to tears by some of the reunions.

General manager Ramona Gherendi said: “It is a special and very emotional time for our residents, as they see their families after such a long time, and has been a relief for families too, to see that their loved ones are well and happy. Throughout this difficult few weeks we have worked hard to keep residents connected with their families and the wider community using technology such as Skype, but it isn’t the same as being together. We are thrilled we can now make this happen for the people we care for.”

Up to four people cared for by White Lodge can see family members at a time.