FANTASTIC DAY OUT AT HISTORIC GARDENS
Carers enjoyed a day out to Bicton Park thanks to the Echo and city charity Dream-A-Way.
A group of carers had a chance to enjoy the 63 acres of gardens, complete with a tour of the East Devon estate's museum, a train ride and lunch.
The event was an expenses-paid treat complete with coach travel to and from Exeter.
Jeff Merrett, chairman of Dream-A-Way, said the day had been a huge success, with many carers enjoying a chance to rest away from their normal routine.
He said: "We all had a fantastic time at Bicton Park with superb food, great staff and a brilliant tour of the museum.
"Everybody had a wonderful day."
Carer Norma Thomas said good weather topped off the event.
She said: "It was nice and relaxing. It was just what we needed. I don't normally go away as I don't like to leave my husband Paul in case something happens. It was great that he could come."
David Turner looks after his wife Juanita, who has severe dyslexia, and is also cared for by her due to his physical disabilities. He has no arms and only one digit coming from a shoulder. He also suffers from diabetes.
He said: "We had a tour of the museum and it was really interesting."
Another carer, Tina Kingdom, praised the organisation of the event and said it had been welcome respite.
"It was a fabulous day," she added. "My mum is caring for my father, and my brother and I help out. Today, my father couldn't make it but my brother is with him and we're taking a day out. I'm glad Dream-A-Way told us about this. It's a fabulous organisation. The opportunities the charity offers are good and, like this trip, they make it easy and accessible. You can just come out and be yourself for a day."
Barbara Wright, who cares for her husband, said: "I felt so pampered. It wasn't restful as we did quite a lot of walking. But I really felt it was a treat. It's the first time I've ever had anything for nothing before."
Gill Freeman, Dream-A-Way's Events Co-ordinator said: "Bicton has beautiful gardens and parkland. We had incredible support from the Lister family who own it. Valerie Lister helped to make it a really special day for everyone."
The Echo's We Care campaign aims to improve the lives of carers and the people they care for by raising awareness of the issues affecting them and lobbying on their behalf for better provision from health providers and educational and social services.
The Echo and Dream-A-Way organised the Bicton trip to show their appreciation of the work carried out by carers.
Dream-A-Way administer the We Care Fund on behalf of the Express & Echo, working together for the benefit of our special guests.
Story courtesy of the Express & Echo