A SPONSORED walk turned into a nostalgic journey for Thornaby care home residents – when they pounded the pavements to raise funds.
A group of residents, staff, and their families from Mandale House Care Home covered more than four miles in a loop to the Tees Barrage and back for the fundraiser.
From the care home, on Acklam Road, they walked north towards Stockton Riverside College and then onwards to Tees Barrage International White Water Centre, with a stop at The Talpore Beefeater along the way.
The journey took the team over three hours and raised £330 for the residents’ fund – which contributes towards activities and outings for those living at the care home.
Phillip Thornton, 70, was among the residents who took part. He said: “It’s been a trip down memory lane, walking past the places where I grew up, and up to the new areas of Thornaby that have changed over the years.”
Jean Brand, 70, also joined in the walk, pushed along by the staff team, which included home manager Anita Clarkson, deputy manager Donna Clayton, care assistant Susan Chapman, and kitchen assistant Carol Lewis. Anita’s four-year-old grandson, Brooklyn, also took part in the challenge.
Donna said: “It was a lovely walk and it was a nice day. The sun was on our side and shone all the way there and back.
“Our residents Jean and Phillip thoroughly enjoyed the stroll, the sunshine and particularly the frothy coffee at the pub, when we took in the sights, watching canoeing on the river and dogs having their daily walks.
“The staff said it was a lovely walk, just what was needed, and we’re all already busy thinking of the next adventure out with residents – maybe a train ride to the beach.
“We’d like to thank everyone who sponsored us. We raised an amazing amount of money for our residents’ fund, which will make a big difference to the experiences we can offer – from day trips and entertainment to little treats that brighten our residents’ days.”