Leven Beach care home has been crowned the winner of Meallmore’s Heilan Hame Gingerbread Challenge with their entry, The Gingerbread Train.

Out of 17 entries from Meallmore care homes across Scotland, Leven Beach’s gingerbread structure was shortlisted by a virtual judging panel commended for its creativity and use of colourful decorations.

The winning bake came out on top against three other shortlisted entries, and was constructed and decorated by residents Jan McConnell (87), Olive Paterson (83) and Johanna Ogg (87).

Leven Beach’s care home manager Ruth Kinnear said: “For some festive fun we were challenged by Meallmore to create a gingerbread structure. Our residents wanted to make sure theirs was unique to Leven and would stand out against other entries.

“Our resident’s train of thought in planning their bake started with fondly remembering Leven’s railway station and reminiscing on trips taken with their loved ones. As a result, Jan, Olive and Johanna created The Gingerbread Train and they, along with the rest of our residents and staff, are delighted to have been crowned the winners of the Heilan Hame Gingerbread Challenge.”

Commenting on the competition, Jody Marshall, Group Hospitality Manager at Meallmore said:
“Leven Beach’s entry was creative and stood out as it was completely different to the other entries, which were all gingerbread houses. The structure of the train was clever and the decoration made good use of colourful sweets.

“All entries to our gingerbread challenge were a true showcase of talent and it was brilliant to see such a high standard of baking taking place across all our Scottish care homes. Two of the things we pride ourselves on at Meallmore are excellent catering standards and a stimulating activities programme for residents. Being able to combine the two of these into this Christmas competition has been fantastic.”

As the winners, Leven Beach will receive a baking hamper from hospitality sponsor, Bidfood.