Elderly residents are preparing to parade half a mile through a town with a large banner to mark the 50th anniversary of an organisation that runs their home.

Ten men and women are hoping to take part in the walk from an Abbeyfield home, in Galgate, Barnard Castle, to a similar home in the town's Flatts Road.

Mary Lowes, a retired head- teacher who is confident of completing the distance, said: "Not all of us can walk far, so some will be in wheelchairs.

But it should be an enjoyable event for all of us."

Abbeyfield has homes in towns all over the country where pensioners have their own rooms in which they live independently, but can get together for meals and call on help when required.

The walkers will be helped by volunteers from a local organisation to carry the banner, which is being made by members of the Teesdale Craft Works group.

They will be treated to coffee and cakes at the end of the journey.

The event takes place on Wednesday, June 7, at 10am and organisers are looking for volunteers to assist the walkers.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to call (01833) 637957.