County Durham care home Residents become pen pals with local nursery childrenResidents at HC-One’s Bishopsgate Lodge in Bishop Auckland have nurtured a friendship with children at York House Nursery for the past few years.

But in light of the coronavirus pandemic, Residents are missing out on their weekly crafts and games with their young friends.

Now they have hatched a plan to stay in touch the old-fashioned way – as pen pals.

Residents made their very own book of messages to send to the nursery, telling them a little bit about themselves and what they have been up to lately.

Mollie, a Resident at Bishopsgate Lodge, said: “It’s been so long since we saw the little ones.

“I hope they haven’t forgotten us!”

The children hadn’t forgotten their friends and have now sent their response to the Residents of the home.

The Residents were thrilled to read their messages and learn a little bit more about the children’s hobbies and interests and admired their accompanying drawings.

Everyone is looking forward to resuming their weekly fun and activities in-person, but for now the friendship can continue by letter as the Residents of Bishopsgate Lodge and the children of York House Nursery keep each other up-to-date with their lives.