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VIDEO: RCMP sing at six care homes in Parksville Qualicum Beach

A group of 18 detachment members regaled seniors with some of the classics
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Members of the Oceanside RCMP and their families performed Christmas carols for residents at Stanford Place in Parksville on Thursday afternoon.

Residents at a half-dozen Parksville and Qualicum Beach care homes were serenaded with Christmas carols Thursday by an unusual choral group — the Oceanside RCMP.

Outfitted in red serge and supported by several family members, civilian office staff and women from the victims services department, a group of 18 detachment members regaled seniors with classic carols in a one-day tour of brief stops.

"It was a fun-filled afternoon," said Constable Melanie Ells, who helped co-ordinate the stops at Eagle Park, Qualicum Manor and the Gardens in Qualicum Beach, and Stanford Place, Cokely Manor and Arrowview Lodge in Parksville.

"I believe the tradition goes back about 15 years in all, and has been a tradition for these residences for at least five years in this area."

Making brief stops at each care facility, the chorus, including detachment commander Staff Sgt. Marc Pelletier, sang a selection of six to 10 carols, accompanied by piano where available. Many of the residents clapped and sang along during the performances.

"Some of these people can't remember what they had for breakfast this morning, but they still know these songs," said Ells. "It's an amazing thing to be a part of."

— NEWS Staff