Staff and residents at local care home raise money for the Royal British Legion

Residents and staff at Hickathrift House in Marshland St James have taken part in the 11/11 challenge to raise money for the Royal British Legion.

Inspired by the 11th day of the 11th month, Hickathrift House has taken on the 11/11 Challenge this Poppy Appeal with the aim of raising £111.

Residents, their relatives and staff were all very supportive and were there to cheer on the participants as they began the fundraising challenge.

Residents have been getting crafty by colouring and collaging 11 poppies which have been displayed on the home's notice board.

Assistant administrator Kanita took on the challenge by drinking 11 cups of tea in a day. Julie the home's employee of the month, has knitted over 11 poppies which are now available at reception and can be bought for a small donation.

Other staff and residents took on the challenge in their own way by hugging, complimenting and dancing with 11 people.

Residents still have planned to bake 11 cupcakes with poppy toppers and staff are organising 11 items to donate before the end of the challenge. If you’d like to donate visit the home's JustGiving page, https://bit.ly/3BNC7BF .

Kat Colangelo, activities coordinator, said: “Taking part in this challenge has been a huge amount of fun and everyone at the home has been behind us all the way. It’s for such an important cause..

"Our residents and staff feel a close connection to the Royal British Legion because several have served or are family members of veterans.

"Our head of maintenance, Jamie Hall, previously raised £2,339.36 for the Royal British Legion by sleeping outside in order to raise awareness of veterans sleeping rough in the UK. The campaign aimed to encourage people to sleep out for one night during the month of March, but Jamie decided to do six."

Jamie is also a veteran.