A sponsored run in Holkham Park next week will help raise money for activities for elderly people at a busy day care centre.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Two members of staff take part in last year's run.Two members of staff take part in last year's run. (Image: Archant)

There will be 10k, 5k and 1k courses on offer on Sunday, October 4, to raise money for Heritage House, in Wells.

Staff and trustees at want to equip a special greenhouse at the centre and build raised beds to grow flowers and vegetables.

They also need to raise funds to bridge the shortfall between payment received from social services and day visitors and its running costs.

Twenty-eight frail and elderly people receive a home cooked, two course meal each day, along with the option of a having a bath and access to a wide range of public sector support agencies and NHS services.

Pamela Underwood, chair of trustees, said: “We would like to increase this number to 32 each day.

“Staff and volunteers run activities such as singing, painting, seated exercise to music, give hand massage, play board games, help with jigsaws and encourage craft activities such as knitting.

“Being in this environment gives, for many, companionship. Knowing that the one they care for is safe and being looked after also gives respite to their carers, so alleviating anxiety and mental stress.”

Heritage House currently helps care for more than 90 people each week. Three accessible mini-buses with wheelchair tracking are used each day to transport day visitors to and from the centre.

Registration for the run begins at 10am on Sunday, October 4. For further details csall 01328 711333 or email heritagedaycare@btconnect.com or lottylong3@icloud.com.