Aycliffe Care Home, which is operated by Akari Care, raised a total of £740 for its Residents’ Comfort Fund over the festive period at its winter wonderland event, with a portion of the funds going to support Kathryn Griffiths, a local girl who is volunteering in Fiji next summer. Kathryn is going to support one of the schools in the country by helping to build proper sanitation, refurbish the facilities and also teach basic English to pupils. She will also be participating in a ‘Week in Paradise’ – a week dedicated to turtle conservation – by providing care for hatchlings, building new turtle pools and artificial reefs, as well as surveying areas and identifying different species. 10% of all monies raised throughout the year by Aycliffe Care Home will also go towards Kathryn and her volunteering efforts.

Kathryn is also going to regularly Skype the home and its residents. Jane Mack, Manager at Aycliffe Care Home, said: “We were delighted to welcome members of the local community to the home to celebrate the holiday season with our residents. “I would like to thank everyone for contributing to the fund, which is very much appreciated and will benefit our residents and Kathryn immensely. Kathryn is such a wonderful person and is going to help make a difference in Fiji, and we will be following her progress and supporting her as much as possible.” Located on Burnhope Way, Newton Aycliffe – Aycliffe Care Home is a purpose built 54-bed home that provides 24hour general residential, dementia and nursing care.