Older people in Poulton-le-Fylde can enjoy the spirit of Cannes next week as part of an armchair Mediterranean cruise.

The virtual voyage has been organised by staff at Bankhouse Nursing Home in Shard Road after a survey revealed that more than a third of the region’s elderly had not had a foreign holiday for more than five years.

Asked what had stopped them from going on a holiday, or would stop them in the future, 66 per cent of older people in Lancashire cited either health concerns or financial worries.

Starting on Monday, clients at Bankhouse will enjoy a Cannes’ themed week with a piano and accordion player performing, a cheese and wine party, a quiz, games of boules and a film afternoon, mimicking the world famous film festival.

Elderly people, not resident at the home will also be invited to join in the fun.

Organisers Bupa, which run Bankhouse, say the virtual cruise offers a sociable, fun and entertaining alternative to finding passports and packing suitcases.

Home manager, Viv Ogden, said: “We’re really excited about Cannes and can’t wait to get started.

"The cruise is a perfect way to explore the cultures and customs of different countries, so anyone who is struggling to get away and wants to join us is more than welcome aboard.”

Director of Bupa Care Homes, Dean Cowley, said: “With so many older people feeling that going abroad is not an option, a virtual holiday is a great way for getting rid of any holiday blues.

“We’ve already had some great feedback from visitors and we hope it will make a real difference to those in need of a change of scene.”

To attend the events or for more information call Denise Smith 01253 701635.