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Remembering David at Charlotte Straker House

Remembering David Thompson at the Charlotte Straker Project

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of David Thompson, a long-standing volunteer and dedicated supporter of The Charlotte Straker Project.

David served on the Charlotte Straker Fundraising Committee from 2006 until 2023, giving an extraordinary 17 years of dedicated voluntary service to our organisation and the wider community. Throughout that time, he brought energy, wisdom, humour and unwavering commitment to the development of Charlotte Straker and the welfare of our residents.

A resident of Corbridge and former Head Teacher of Haydon Bridge High School, David was known and respected by many across the region. At Charlotte Straker House, he quickly became an invaluable member of the fundraising team, always willing to roll up his sleeves and help wherever needed.

In the early years of his involvement, David worked with the team to organise a Hadrian Wall Walk in 2007, before taking the lead on the ambitious Namibia Trek in 2008 through the Ugab Valley. Those who took part still fondly remember moments of laughter amid the challenge, including a memorable game of bowls played with dried elephant dung and attempts to cool off in a small puddle with four others in the Namibian heat. Alongside the camaraderie and adventure, both events raised significant funds to support The Charlotte Straker Project.

David also played an important role in strengthening community support for the organisation. He contributed greatly to the success of the Friends initiative launched in 2013, helping to recruit many loyal supporters committed to regular giving. His ideas and vision also helped shape the creation of the Charlotte Straker Development Fund, providing a clearer focus for fundraising efforts and helping the community better understand how donations directly supported the development of buildings, equipment and facilities for residents.

Beyond formal meetings and fundraising campaigns, David was a familiar and enthusiastic presence at community events, regularly leading and playing for the Charlotte Straker cricket team during the annual Family Fun Day and Charity Shield competition.

Those who worked alongside David speak warmly of his thoughtful contributions, calm judgement and ability to help find a way forward whenever challenges arose. He combined practical wisdom with kindness and good humour, and his friendship and support meant a great deal to many people connected with the organisation.

David’s contribution leaves a lasting legacy. We are deeply grateful for the time, care and commitment he gave over so many years, and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.

Team Raises £1,800 in Hadrian’s Wall Challenge

Charlotte Straker House Team Raises over £1,800 in Hadrian’s Wall Challenge

A dedicated team of staff from Charlotte Straker House have successfully completed a 20km Hadrian’s Wall challenge, raising an incredible £1,877 to support the home’s Development Fund.

Ten members of staff from across all departments within the care home took part in the challenge, organised by Challenge Northumberland, after weeks of training, fundraising and support from the local community.

The funds raised will help continue to enhance the environment and experiences for residents at Charlotte Straker House, supporting future projects and improvements across the home.

The team received fantastic encouragement from families, friends, colleagues and the wider community throughout their fundraising journey.

Samantha Willis, Home Manager at Charlotte Straker House, said “It is fantastic to see the dedication across all our teams and the incredible support shown for this challenge. We are so proud of everyone who took part and grateful to everyone who donated and encouraged the team along the way. The money raised will make a real difference to our residents.”

The challenge brought together colleagues from across the organisation, highlighting the strong sense of teamwork and commitment shared throughout the home.

Charlotte Straker House would like to thank everyone who supported the team and helped make the fundraising challenge such a success.

Charity Fashion Show Raises Over £3,700

Corbridge Charity Fashion Show Raises Over £3,700 for Local Causes

A hugely successful evening of style, community spirit, and generosity saw the Corbridge Charity Fashion Show raise an impressive £3,717.08, to be shared equally between The Charlotte Straker Project and Corbridge Youth Initiative.

Held on Thursday 23rd April 2026, the event brought together residents, local businesses, and supporters for a vibrant celebration of fashion and fundraising. With the sun shining, guests arrived to a warm welcome and a glass of fizz, enjoying time to browse stalls before the show began.

The evening featured fashion walks showcasing collections from a range of Corbridge’s independent retailers, highlighting the very best of local style and creativity.

The organising team are grateful to the participating businesses including Croft and Graves Optometrists, Vintage at the Tower, Jessie Juniper, Finale Shoes and Accessories, Chapter 38, and Shorts of Corbridge, whose energy and collaboration helped make the event such a success.

Appreciation is also extended to the volunteers who walked the catwalk or worked behind the scenes, and to everyone who attended and supported the evening. Special thanks are given to the volunteers from Corbridge Cricket Club for providing the bar, the Scout Hut Management Committee for allowing use of the Scout Hut for model changing, and the staff at the Parish Hall for their warm welcome and support throughout the event.

Further thanks go to Ian Wylie for producing a professional film and photographic display of the evening, and to Jake Smurthwaite and the Waltons Cook shop for providing all sound and lighting equipment, helping to create a truly polished and memorable experience.

A particular highlight was the raffle, which included an array of generous prizes such as designer sunglasses, a Yorkshire cottage stay, retail vouchers, and a one-of-a-kind hand-woven shawl. The organisers would like to recognise the many individuals and businesses who contributed prizes, adding to the success of the fundraising effort.

Berenice Groves, Chair of The Charlotte Straker Project, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the success of the fashion show. It was a wonderful evening that truly reflected the generosity of our community. Every ticket purchased and raffle entry will directly support the vital work we do, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who played a part.”

Chris Nevis, Trustee of Corbridge Youth Initiative, added: “This event was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when a community comes together. The funds raised will make a real difference to young people in Corbridge, and we cannot thank our supporters, volunteers, and local businesses enough for their contributions.”

The funds raised will support both charities’ ongoing work in the local community, helping to provide essential services and opportunities for residents of all ages.

Following the success of this year’s event, organisers hope to build on the momentum and continue bringing the community together in the future. A video highlight reel of the evening can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/-cxuohDc0Sk

Made with Love: Crochet Raffle

Made with Love: Crochet Raffle in Memory of Mary

The Charlotte Straker Project has been incredibly touched by a kind and meaningful gesture from Bex Campin, the granddaughter of a much-loved former resident, Mary.

In memory of her Nanny, Bex has lovingly created and donated a beautiful handmade crochet blanket, which will be raffled to raise funds for our Development Fund. The blanket measures approximately 5ft by 5ft and is fleece lined for extra warmth and comfort. It is a remarkable piece of craftsmanship and a true labour of love.

Crochet held a special place in both Bex and Mary’s hearts. Over the years, Bex created a number of handmade gifts for her Nanny, including a small crochet elephant which Mary proudly kept on her windowsill at home, before bringing it with her to Charlotte Straker House. Bex also made a personalised blanket embroidered with “Nanny”, a treasured gift that brought both comfort and a sense of closeness.

Pictured above: Bex Campin with her dad, Chris Campin. 

Mary sadly passed away in late 2024, and this fundraiser is a beautiful way to honour her memory while supporting others.

To mark what would have been Mary’s birthday on 27th April, Bex will be launching this special fundraising initiative, celebrating Mary’s life and the love that continues through this special gift.

Samantha Willis, Home Manager at Charlotte Straker House, said “Bex’s generosity and the love behind this beautiful blanket is amazing. Although only with us for a short time, Mary was a very special part of our community, and it means so much to see her memory honoured in such a thoughtful way. This fundraiser will help us continue to create meaningful experiences for our residents, which is at the heart of everything we do.”

From 27th April, people are invited to enter the prize draw to win this very special blanket. Every £2 will count as one entry, and supporters are encouraged to give what they can to be part of this meaningful initiative.

The draw will take place at Charlotte Straker House on Monday 29th June and funds raised will help to create enriching activities and new opportunities for residents at Charlotte Straker House.

We are so grateful to Bex for her generosity, creativity, and for choosing to support us in such a special way. We hope you will join us in supporting this special fundraiser and celebrating Mary’s memory.

Entries can be made at: pay.sumup.com/b2c/QUFZ55MY

If you would like to support, please leave your name and number as a note with your donation to be entered into the draw.

Our Year in Review: 2025–26

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House Team Takes on Hadrian’s Wall Challenge

Charlotte Straker House Team Takes on Hadrian’s Wall Challenge

A dedicated team from Charlotte Straker House is preparing to take on an ambitious 20km hike along Hadrian’s Wall this spring.

Part of the community for over 100 years, Charlotte Straker House, based in Corbridge, is a warm and welcoming non-profit care home committed to supporting the health, wellbeing, and happiness of older people. The home offers a range of services, including residential and nursing care within its 32-bed facility, supported living bungalows for greater independence, as well as free short-term respite care and a day care service.

On Sunday 17th May 2026, members of The Charlotte Straker Project team will embark on a challenging 20km (12-mile) hike along Hadrian’s Wall, walking from Walltown Country Park to Housesteads Visitor Centre. The route will test participants with rugged terrain, steep ascents reaching up to 1000ft, and an expected 7–8 hours of hiking.

The team will be supported along the way by Northumberland National Park Volunteer Rangers, Challenge Northumberland, and the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Team, ensuring a safe and well-supported journey.

The group are raising money for the home’s Development Fund. This vital fund helps enhance facilities and resources, ensuring that residents, visitors, staff, and volunteers can enjoy a comfortable and inspiring environment.

Every step taken – and every pound raised – will directly contribute to improving the day-to-day experiences of those who call Charlotte Straker House home.

Steve Adams, CEO for the charity said “This challenge is a fantastic opportunity for our team to come together, push themselves, and raise funds that will make a real and lasting difference to our home. We’re incredibly grateful for any support from our local community.”

Supporters are encouraged to sponsor the team and follow their journey as they take on this inspiring challenge. Make a donation at: Our Big Hike 20km Challenge 2026! – JustGiving

Egger UK Community Fund Donation

Charlotte Straker Project Awarded £1,500 from Egger UK Community Fund

The Charlotte Straker Project is proud to announce it has been awarded £1,500 from the EGGER UK Community Fund in Hexham.

The EGGER Community Fund empowers employees to nominate and vote for local charities that matter most to them, with the highest-voted organisation receiving the top award. The Charlotte Straker Project was nominated by EGGER employee Dan Soulsby, Senior Key Account Manager, and is delighted to have received the greatest number of votes, reflecting the strong support for the charity among EGGER teams.

Andrew Sanderson, Project Director for Delivery Performance at EGGER UK and Chair of the Charity Committee, said “We created the EGGER Community Fund to give our employees a meaningful way to support the local causes that matter most to them. Every organisation we choose for selection has been nominated by our colleagues, reflecting the close connection they feel with charities across our area. We’re delighted to have been able to support the Charlotte Straker Project and the vital work they do in our community.”

The funding will support the charity’s Development Fund, helping to sustain and enhance services at Charlotte Straker House, a residential and nursing home supporting people aged 65 and over. This includes the charity’s free community respite care service, which provides essential support to older people and their families across the area.

Karen Hunter, Plant Administration Team Leader at EGGER UK and Secretary of the Charity Committee, added “Our Charity Committee is made up of volunteering colleagues from each team, and we work to ensure we can maximise the impact of donations from the company.”

Berenice Groves, Chair of Trustees at the Charlotte Straker Project, said: “We are absolutely delighted and extremely grateful to the staff at EGGER Hexham for nominating us, and to everyone who took the time to vote. This generous donation will make a huge difference, enabling us to invest in our Development Fund and continue improving the care, facilities and activities we provide, while ensuring vital respite services remain available to those who need them most.”

The Charlotte Straker Project is a local charity dedicated to providing high-quality residential, nursing, and respite care in a supportive, community-focused environment. Awards such as this play a crucial role in helping the organisation plan for the future and respond to the growing needs of older people.

Pictured left to right: Andy Sanderson (Project Director Delivery Performance and Chair of the Charity Committee, EGGER UK), Berenice Groves (Chair of Trustees, Charlotte Straker Project), Gavin Black (Vice Chair, Charlotte Straker Project), and Dan Soulsby (Senior Key Account Manager, EGGER UK, who nominated the Charlotte Straker Project).

Charwallahs and Chilli Night Raises Over £2,400

Charwallahs and Chilli Night Raises Over £2,400 for Local Charities

Corbridge came alive on Saturday 14th March as nearly 100 guests gathered at Corbridge Parish Hall for the much-anticipated Charwallahs and Chilli Night, co-hosted by Corbridge Youth Initiative and the Charlotte Straker Project.

The evening featured a fantastic performance by the five-piece band The Charwallahs, who delighted the crowd with classic hits, including favourites by The Beatles. Guests also enjoyed a delicious chilli supper prepared by the kitchen team at Charlotte Straker House, while Corbridge Cricket Club ensured the bar was well stocked for the night’s festivities.

The event was a huge success, raising over £2,400, with profits to be split equally between the two local charities.

Berenice Groves, Chair of Trustees at Charlotte Straker House, said “It was wonderful to see our community come together for such a fun and meaningful evening. The support for our project and the Corbridge Youth Initiative has been overwhelming, and we are so grateful to everyone who attended and contributed.”

Chris Nevis from Corbridge Youth Initiative added “Events like this remind us of the strength and generosity of our local community. The funds raised will make a real difference to the young people we support, and we are thrilled to have shared such a memorable evening with the Charlotte Straker Project.”

The Charwallahs and Chilli Night not only celebrated great music, food, and company but also demonstrated the incredible spirit of giving in Corbridge.

A Whistle Stop Century for Nancy

Celebrating 100 Years: A Whistle Stop Century for Nancy

Born on 22nd March 1926, the year of the General Strike, Nancy arrived into a world of flappers, Fair Isle sweaters and modest life expectancies. Within days, Queen Elizabeth II and David Attenborough were also born, suggesting it was a particularly notable year.

One hundred years later, Nancy is still very much setting the pace.

Raised in Yorkshire alongside her twin brother Neville and older brother Peter, Nancy attended the formidable Skellfield Girls’ Boarding School in Ripon before wartime evacuation to Topcliffe, where she became Head Girl. It was an early sign of the leadership and resolve that would define her life.

After the war, she headed to London, living near Marble Arch and working through the era of rationing and the Great Smog, while occasionally indulging in tea at Lyons Corner House. Returning north, she joined the family business and soon demonstrated another talent, public speaking. Entering the National Speaking Competition with the Leeds Young Conservatives, Nancy’s team won first prize.  Their achievement was recorded in the Bodleian Library and proudly preserved in a faded newspaper clipping rediscovered years later.

Tennis courts brought romance. She married Graeme Anderson despite his two years of National Service at sea, and together they embarked on a life characterised by movement, ambition and no small amount of determination.

They lived on Loch Lomond and welcomed their son, then went one better by designing and building their own home in Strathblane. Later came St Albans, twin daughters, and a lively assortment of pets including chipmunks and a golden retriever who was rehomed under cover of darkness to lasting family outrage. Eventually miniature schnauzers became part of the story too.

A move to Derby saw Nancy redecorate a substantial Victorian house from top to bottom while largely single handedly raising three children during Graeme’s frequent overseas work. All this was alongside her role at Reckitt and Colman, long before working motherhood was widely recognised or celebrated.

She transformed overgrown gardens into thriving plots, passed on her formidable horticultural knowledge, and even bred prize miniature schnauzers, sending puppies with memorable names off to new homes.

Later chapters in Northumberland brought birdwatching, gardening clubs, antiques work and time assisting a local architect, along with adventures further afield. Safaris, river cruises and hikes in the Swiss Alps proved that curiosity has no expiry date.

Nancy has witnessed a century of extraordinary change, from post war austerity to the digital age, adapting, contributing and quietly excelling at every turn.

Her story is not one headline moment but a succession of achievements. Leadership, eloquence, resilience, entrepreneurship, motherhood, career, creativity and adventure.

On International Women’s Day, as we celebrate women who shape the world, Nancy’s 100 years stand as a reminder that remarkable lives are often built not in grand gestures, but in determination, adaptability and a refusal to stand still.

A century on from her arrival during national upheaval, Nancy is still, quite magnificently, getting away with it.

Happy 100th Birthday, Nancy.

Pictured: Nancy and Graeme Anderson atop a fell in the Lakes 

Celebrating Nurse Recruitment Success

Charlotte Straker House Celebrates Nurse Recruitment Success

The Charlotte Straker Project is proud to announce the successful recruitment of two new nurses from within its existing team. In a challenging care sector landscape, the home has been able to fill these roles internally, following staff retirement, ensuring continuity of care and avoiding lengthy external recruitment processes.

Both new appointees were already part of the Charlotte Straker House family, making this an especially rewarding achievement. Among them is Kellie, who has worked as a bank nurse with the home over the past year. Despite the irregular nature of bank shifts, Kelly has thrived in the welcoming and supportive environment of Charlotte Straker House and was eager to step into a full-time position.

Sam Willis, Home Manager at Charlotte Straker House, said “We place huge value on our existing team, and it’s wonderful to see our staff secure more hours and full-time roles through internal opportunities. This allows us to avoid lengthy recruitment processes while ensuring our home continues to operate to the highest standards. They are both excellent examples of the talent and dedication already within our home.”

Charlotte Straker House remains committed to supporting career development for its staff and providing outstanding care for its residents, fostering a positive and nurturing environment for both staff and those they care for.

Pictured: Registered Nurse Kellie Collin