Singing event to cheer up Leeds care home residents and thank staff

Harriet Wright's 77-year-old mother Maggie was diagnosed with coronavirus just over three weeks ago at Ghyll Royd House care home in Guiseley, which has been under lockdown for more than two months.

Ms Wright, of Bramley, said her mother, who suffers from MS, is recovering from Covid-19 and is now out of isolation.

Maggie Wright's personal assistant Julie Watson, of Yeadon, launched a crowdfunding appeal to raise cash for an event in June to cheer people up at the home.

She hoped to raise £50, but the JustGiving appeal has already netted more than £600.

Singer Melody Reed has volunteered to give her time for free and Miss Watson will be dressing in an Abba costume to entertain residents outside the home at a safe distance from 11am on Tuesday June 2.

Some of the cash raised will be used to buy cakes and treats for staff and residents.

Ms Wright said her mother, who has been a resident at the home for 12-years, is independent and loves to go for trips to the Yorkshire Dales and to the cinema.

She said: "It has been a nightmare, you just fear the worst when they tell you she has tested positive.

"The fact she has pulled through I feel is a bit of a miracle. But she is a tough old girl, she has been through a lot in her life."

Ms Wright added: "Julie is a complete star. It is just so sweet that she is doing this for all the residents and staff.

"It will be good to recognise the staff as well for all the hard work they have done."

Julie Watson, who also runs her own florist business Phoenix Lily Flowers, said:"Since the lockdown I have not been able to see Maggie so I have been delivering food to the doorstep at Ghyll Royd,.

"The whole home has been in lockdown and Maggie has been confined to her room for three weeks so I thought about doing this fundraiser.

"Morale has been quite low with the residents and the staff.

"I want to try and boost morale and lift spirits. I'm absolutely thrilled and quite emotional at the amount raised and want to thank everyone who has contributed."

Joy Bickerdike, one of three activity coordinators at the home, said: "I think it's amazing, no-one has done anything like this for us before. We are all really excited about it.

"It hasn't been the easiest of times. The managers have been amazing. We have just all tried to buckle down the best we can.

"Like any other care home, we have just had to do our best."