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Resident Celebrates with Royal Recognition

Charlotte Straker Resident Celebrates 60 Years of Marriage with Family and Royal Recognition

A resident of Charlotte Straker House in Corbridge has celebrated his Diamond Wedding Anniversary, marking 60 years of marriage with family, friends — and a card from The King.

John, a much-loved resident at Charlotte Straker House, recently marked 60 years of marriage to his wife, Steph, with a special celebration with their children, Ben and Lucy.

As part of the celebrations, the couple received a special congratulatory card from His Majesty King Charles III, acknowledging the incredible milestone and decades of love and partnership.

To mark the occasion, the family gathered for a celebratory lunch in Newcastle, made even more special by the arrival of their son Ben and his wife Rie, who travelled all the way from Japan to be there.

John and Steph were first married at the Newcastle Registry Office, followed the very next day by a service at St Thomas’ Church. “We didn’t have the budget for a church wedding at the time,” Steph shared, “so we split it across two days which means we get to celebrate our anniversary twice every year!”

Charlotte Straker House marked the day with congratulations and a home-made cake, honouring John and Steph’s long and inspiring partnership.

“It was such a joy to celebrate this milestone with John and his family,” said Sam Willis, Home Manager at Charlotte Straker House. “Diamond anniversaries are incredibly special, and we were delighted to play a small part in helping John and Steph mark the day.”

The Charlotte Straker Project, a registered charity based in Corbridge, provides high-quality care and support for older people, with a focus on community. The Diamond Wedding celebration was another example of the meaningful moments that make the home so special.

Votes Help Us Win £500 Donation

We Won: Your NRG’s ‘Giving Back’ Initiative!

We are delighted to share the exciting news that Charlotte Straker House has been awarded a generous donation through Your NRG’s Giving Back initiative – a nationwide scheme that supports organisations across the UK through public nominations and voting.

Thanks to the overwhelming support of our local community and beyond, Charlotte Straker House received the highest number of votes among a shortlist of worthy causes. The initiative, run by energy company Your NRG, allows members of the public to nominate and vote for organisations making a positive impact.

Pictured above: Chair of Trustees Berenice Groves, Gordon Wallis Your NRG and Steve Adams, CEO at Charlotte Straker Project. 

Gordon Wallis of Your NRG commented:
“The team at Charlotte Straker House goes above and beyond to ensure their residents feel cared for, supported, and part of a community. Their dedication really stood out to us and to our customers, and we’re proud to support their mission through the Giving Back initiative.”

Steve Adams, CEO of Charlotte Straker House, expressed his gratitude for the recognition:
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to vote for us in the Giving Back initiative. The overwhelming support from our community truly means the world to us and highlights the importance of the work we do every day.”

“We would also like to extend our thanks to Your NRG for offering this fantastic scheme, which helps shine a light on organisations like ours and enables us to continue making a positive difference. This recognition motivates us to keep pushing forward and supporting those who rely on us.”

The donation will be used to directly benefit our residents by enhancing care services, funding staff training, and expanding our existing wellbeing and activity programmes.

We would like to thank everyone who supported our nomination – it’s your votes that made this possible. Together, we continue to build a caring, connected community where every resident is valued and supported.

Meet Our Incredible Great North Run Team!

We are so proud to introduce some of our amazing runners taking part in the 2025 AJ Bell Great North Run in support of the Charlotte Straker Project. Each of these individuals is running for a reason close to their heart, whether to give back, honour a loved one, or support the vital work we do every day.

Read their stories below and please consider supporting their fundraising efforts. Every donation will help us continue providing high-quality residential, nursing and respite care to those who need it most.

Kadene

Local Hair Stylist at Hair by Kadene, Corbridge, running the Great North Run for the first time!

Kadene is a well-known local hair stylist who regularly visits Charlotte Straker House for hair appointments with some residents. After getting to know our home through these visits, Kadene felt inspired to take on the Great North Run and raise funds for the charity.

“Spending time with the residents really opened my eyes to how special the Charlotte Straker Project is. Running is my way of giving back.”

Kadene is training hard and determined to complete the 13.1 mile challenge. Let’s help her smash her fundraising goal!

Support Kadene: https://ajbellgreatnorthrun2025.enthuse.com/pf/kadene-irwin

Zoe

Running in memory of her beloved grandad, Jim Tait

Zoe’s reason for running is deeply personal. She is taking on the Great North Run in memory of her grandad, Jim Tait, who was cared for at Charlotte Straker House before sadly passing away in October 2024.

“I am running in memory of my grandad, Jim Tait. He was cared for by the staff at Charlotte Straker House, and I want to give something back to say thank you. Supporting the home means more families like ours can continue to receive the same care and support.”

We are incredibly honoured by Zoe’s tribute and are cheering her on every step of the way.

Support Zoe: https://www.justgiving.com/page/zoe-stephenson-4

Eve

Administration Assistant at Charlotte Straker House

Eve works as part of the admin team at Charlotte Straker House and sees first-hand the difference our care makes every day. She’s going the extra mile this September to take on the Great North Run and raise money for the residents she supports through her work.

“Being part of the Charlotte Straker team is so rewarding, and now I want to do even more to help. This run is a great way to achieve something special while also supporting the charity.”

We’re thrilled to have Eve representing our staff on the route this year!

Support Eve: https://ajbellgreatnorthrun2025.enthuse.com/pf/eve-mitchell

These inspiring individuals are giving their time and energy to support our charity and you can help make every step count. Please consider sponsoring a runner, sharing their story, or simply cheering them on as they prepare for race day.

We also have two more brilliant runners on the team – we’ll be sharing their stories soon!

Thank you for supporting the Charlotte Straker Project!

Taste of Summer at Charlotte Straker House

A Fresh Taste of Summer at Charlotte Straker House

We’re delighted to share that our brand new Summer Menu has officially launched at Charlotte Straker House and it’s already proving to be a hit!

Crafted with care by our talented kitchen team, this seasonal menu balances delicious flavours with thoughtful nutrition. It’s all part of our commitment to ensuring residents enjoy meals that not only nourish, but bring joy and comfort too.

Shaped by Our Residents and Families

Ahead of the launch, we hosted a special planning session where residents and their families shared their ideas, favourite dishes, and feedback. We were so pleased with the enthusiasm and thoughtful input we received – and many of those suggestions helped shape the final menu.

It’s just one of the many ways we involve our community in the day-to-day life of Charlotte Straker House, ensuring our services reflect the voices of those we care for.

What’s on the Menu?

The Summer Menu runs on a three-week rotation, showcasing a variety of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Some of the new highlights include:

  • Seafood Salad – light, refreshing, and packed with flavour

  • Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables – a colourful, healthy classic

  • Fruit Pavlova – our ever-popular dessert, perfect for summer

Every dish is prepared with attention to detail, aiming to satisfy both the palate and dietary needs of our residents.

A Big Thank You

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring this menu to life, from our residents and families who took part in the planning, to our hardworking kitchen team who deliver these meals with care and consistency every day.

 

Corbridge in Full Bloom: Open Gardens Event Raises Over £3,000

Corbridge in Full Bloom: Open Gardens Event Raises Over £3,000 for Local Good Causes

Over 330 people were welcomed at the 2025 Corbridge Open Gardens charity event with 17 dazzling gardens open to the public.

The afternoon showcased a wide variety of green spaces from well-established cottage gardens and larger areas to creative smaller plots. All generously opened by local residents.

The event raised £3120 to be shared equally between local charities The Charlotte Straker Project, a non-profit care facility in the village, and the Corbridge Community Partnership. Both charities helped to organise and stage the Open Gardens. Supported by local volunteers and community groups, including the Corbridge Gardening Society and Corbridge in Bloom.

Also welcoming visitors to the Open Gardens HQ at the Corbridge Community Hub where volunteers supplied tea, coffee, cake and savouries. Generous donations from recipients added significantly to the total raised (pictured below).

A popular addition this year was a plant sale run by the Tynedale Horticultural Service (NCC) which provides work experience opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. Their involvement added extra value to the event, reinforcing the community focus and offering visitors the chance to support another local initiative.

Taking place the same weekend as the St Andrew’s Church Flower Festival in Corbridge – one of the many events marking the church’s 1350th anniversary – the Open Gardens also formed part of a wider community celebration. Highlighting the rich heritage and community spirit of Corbridge.

Funds raised for Charlotte Straker will go towards the charity’s Development Fund supporting ongoing improvements to care and facilities. The Corbridge Community Partnership will also benefit. With funds supporting its varied community work based at the Hub in Princes Street.

Steve Adams, CEO at Charlotte Straker, commented “This was a well organised and well supported event that brought the village together. We are grateful to all the garden hosts, volunteers and visitors who made it a success. It was a good example of what can be achieved when local organisations work together.”

David Crompton Chair Corbridge Community Partnership shared “It is wonderful when people make a difference in their community. That is exactly what happened with the Open Gardens event. To the many people who visited the gardens we were thankful for your donations your generosity inspires us every day. For the amazing efforts of all the volunteers and garden owners we appreciate your support more than words can express. Despite the wind and rain your enthusiasm shone through to support our local charities.”

 

Charity Cricket Afternoon Hits a Six

Charity Cricket Afternoon Hits a Six Raising Over £1,100 for Corbridge Good Causes

The sun shone (at times!) on Corbridge as the long-awaited Charity Shield Cricket Afternoon took place on Sunday 1 June, raising an impressive £1,113.74 in support of local good causes: The Corbridge Youth Initiative, The Charlotte Straker Project and Corbridge Cricket Club. After weather-related cancellations in both 2023 and 2024, this year’s cricket afternoon was a resounding success, bringing the Corbridge community together for a day of sport, food, fun and live music.

Hosted by Corbridge Cricket Club, the day featured 8-a-side softball cricket, a lively quoits competition, homemade teas in the Pavilion, and a BBQ and live music running into the evening. Locals turned out in great numbers to enjoy the atmosphere and show their support for local charities.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the charity cricket match such a fantastic afternoon. Special mention goes to Chris Nevis, Trustee of Corbridge Youth Initiative, who played a key role in bringing the day together. The funds raised will be shared between both charities.

We look forward to more events in the future with the success of 2025 setting a new standard, the Charity Shield Cricket Afternoon is once again a highlight on the Corbridge calendar.

Warm Welcome at Volunteer Coffee Morning

A Warm Welcome at Our Community Coffee Morning ☕

We were delighted to welcome so many friendly faces to our recent Community Coffee Morning at Charlotte Straker House.

The event brought together residents, volunteers, and local visitors for a morning of laughter, delicious homemade cakes, and engaging conversation. It was heartening to see such strong interest in the work we do — and particularly exciting to welcome several new volunteers who signed up to get involved.

A special thank you goes to our wonderful team of volunteers, who helped host the morning and shared their experiences of being part of the Charlotte Straker community. We’re already looking forward to the next coffee morning and hope to see even more new faces there!

Interested in joining our volunteer team? Find out how you can get involved and make a real difference: Volunteers – The Charlotte Straker Project

Blencathra hike raises over £900

Charlotte Straker House Staff Raise £970 with Blencathra Climb

A team of dedicated staff from Charlotte Straker House has successfully completed their ambitious climb of Blencathra in the Lake District, raising an incredible £970 for the charity’s Development Fund.

The group tackled the steep and challenging peak last week, overcoming tough terrain and unpredictable weather to reach the summit, all in support of enhancing the lives of residents at the Corbridge-based care home.

“It was a tough climb, but knowing we were doing it for our residents kept us going,” explained Home Manager, Sam Willis. “We’re so grateful for the support we received, it really spurred us on.” The money raised will go directly into the Development Fund, which provides funding for extra activities, outings and experiences that enrich day-to-day life at Charlotte Straker House.

Steve Adams, CEO of Charlotte Straker House, praised the team’s commitment: “We’re so proud of our staff for completing such a physically demanding challenge. Their dedication truly represents the spirit of life at our home, always going above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those we care for. The £970 raised will have a lasting impact.”

A special thank-you goes to Angela and Karen, who organised the walk, provided first aid and refreshments, and kept everyone motivated throughout the challenge. Their support was instrumental in making the day such a success, and they are a truly valued part of the Charlotte Straker team.

Charlotte Straker House is a not-for-profit residential and nursing care home known for its high standards of care and a strong focus on resident wellbeing.

While the challenge may be over, donations can still be made via the team’s JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/hike-for-charlotte-straker

Every pound raised helps bring more joy and opportunity to the residents, ensuring they continue to live full and rewarding lives.

Team Hike Blencathra for Development Fund

Charlotte Straker House Staff to Tackle Blencathra for Residents’ Development Fund

A dedicated team of staff from Charlotte Straker House is preparing to scale one of the Lake District’s most challenging peaks, Blencathra, to raise vital funds for the charity’s Development Fund, which supports enhanced activities and experiences for its residents.

The climb, taking place next week, will see staff members take on the steep and demanding ascent in a show of commitment to those they care for daily. The Development Fund plays a crucial role in helping Charlotte Straker House provide additional outings, events, and enriching opportunities that go beyond everyday care.

“We’re incredibly proud of our staff for going the extra mile to support of our residents,” explains Steve Adams, CEO at Charlotte Straker House. “The Activities Team is at the heart of life here, and the funds raised from this challenge will allow us to expand the range of experiences we can offer.”

Charlotte Straker House is a not-for-profit residential and nursing care home in Corbridge, known for its high-quality care and commitment to resident wellbeing.

If you would like to support the Blencathra Challenge, donations can be made via the team’s JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/hike-for-charlotte-straker

Every donation, large or small, will directly benefit the residents and help ensure they continue to live rich, fulfilling lives.

VE Day Brings Generations Together

VE Day Afternoon Tea Brings Generations Together at Charlotte Straker House

As the nation paused to commemorate Victory in Europe Day on Thursday 8th May, Charlotte Straker House in Corbridge held a vibrant afternoon tea party to mark the occasion. It was a heartwarming celebration that brought residents, their families, and staff together to honour a moment in history.

The Dining Room was transformed with decorations, delicious homemade cakes, and pots of tea. Residents and their loved ones gathered to enjoy an afternoon of live music, laughter, and reflection, with many dressing in era-inspired outfits to embrace the spirit of the day. Residents were treated to a performance by local singer Ruth Boyd, who appeared in character as a ‘land girl’ and treated guests to a lively set of wartime classics. Her songs quickly had everyone smiling, clapping, and even dancing.

The event proved to be a touching tribute not only to VE Day itself but also to the residents who lived through the Second World War and carry with them powerful personal memories of that time. Their stories, shared in the days leading up to the event, gave the celebration an even deeper meaning.

Douglas, aged 102, served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps and spoke about the “relief” he felt when the war ended, after years of service abroad. Jo Cook, who was 21 on VE Day, recalled the emotional announcement of peace and the bittersweet joy felt across her village, where not everyone had made it home. Joan remembered the lights on Princes Street in Edinburgh “like a string of pearls” and Nancy, still a schoolgirl during the war, shared a more light-hearted memory of parsnips being the only food on offer at school.

Staff at Charlotte Straker House also joined in the festivities, donning 1940s-style outfits complete with headscarves, red lipstick, and vintage accessories to help set the tone and honour the era.

“It was a truly special afternoon,” said Steve Adams, CEO of Charlotte Straker House. “Hearing these personal stories and watching our residents come together with their families was a real privilege. Events like this not only celebrate history but bring our community closer together.”

With plenty of smiles, great conversation and live music, the afternoon tea was a huge success and a fitting tribute to the courage, resilience, and spirit of those who lived through the war.