CARE homes in County Durham opened their doors as part of a nationwide initiative aimed at building relationships with communities.

National Care Home Open Day was marked on Friday (June 16) by homes in Newton Aycliffe and Sedgefield where tea and cake were used to welcome in people from the local area.

At Willowdene Care Home, Sedgefield, staff and residents whipped up a spread for an elevenses event and were joined by Spennymoor-based community group Leisure Time Crafting.

Angela Penman, activities coordinator at Willowdene Care Home, on Lizard Lane, said: “The vast majority of our residents have lived in the area for most of their lives so it’s important to us that we maintain relationships with our community so that they can continue to play an active part in community life.”

And in Newton Aycliffe a high tea and Prosecco afternoon was held at Rose Lodge Care Home, on Carer's Way.

Guests were treated to a drinks reception followed by an afternoon tea.

The open day was held in conjunction with The Eden Project’s The Big Lunch neighbourhood get-together, which aims to get as many people as possible across the UK have lunch with their neighbours annually in a simple act of community, friendship and fun.

Rose Lodge Care Home manager Nicola Wheatley said: “Our team here really pushed the boat out to create a memorable day for residents and guests. "Everyone said that they thoroughly enjoyed themselves which is what The Big Lunch and National Care Home Open Day is really all about.”