A VOLUNTEER with a big heart has received the Evening Mail's Bouquet of the Week for selflessly helping out at a residential home for elderly people.

Wendy Barratt proves age is no barrier, as the 79-year-old supports staff and puts on lots of fun activity sessions at Staveley House in Greystone Lane, Dalton.

Mrs Barratt, of Westbourne Crescent, Barrow, was surprised by the special bunch of flowers on Friday October 7 while she held the monthly residents' meeting at the Abbeyfield care home.

The former office worker at Vickers volunteers at Staveley House, despite being older than some of the residents, and puts on an art class once a month and popular memory sessions with another volunteer.

She's been doing it ever since her husband passed away.

Mrs Barratt said: "When my husband died five years ago I was at a bit of a loose end. I didn't know what to do with myself.

"A friend was putting on the bingo at Staveley House and asked if I would like to go along and help. That's how I became a volunteer.

"I do the residents' meeting where they can bring up anything they like and check they are happy.

"I run the memories session with another volunteer every now and again and we ask them 'do you remember your first day at school?' and 'what was your first job?'

"It brings conversation and the residents find out something new about each other."

Mrs Barratt belongs to the Barrow Society of Artists; and her art class is currently busy producing a Christmas banner which they hope to display at the care home.

Speaking about what she likes most about her role, she said: "I enjoy talking to the people and I have met some lovely people.

"They are really nice. They are so kind.

"It's just a lovely atmosphere altogether."

Mrs Barratt was nominated for the Bouquet of the Week by her daughter-in-law Karan Locke, who said in her nomination: "She is 79 and is always helping others."

Previous bouquet winners

Ulverston community champion receives Bouquet of the Week

Fond farewell to much-respected Walney School star

Retiring Barrow chip shop owner thanked for Marie Curie support with Bouquet of the Week