A CARE home in Bidford was raising money for Alzheimer’s awareness last week, with a balloon race for staff, residents and their families.

Waterloo House Care Home, which provides specialist care for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s, organised the event to mark World Alzheimer’s Day on Wednesday, September 21.

Relatives, as well as staff members, were invited to buy a balloon to release on the day in memory of a chosen friend or relative, and the hope is that when the balloons land, people will be able to contact the home and let them know which one has travelled the furthest.

Waterloo House activities coordinator Jen Clay, said: “We thought the balloon race would be something a little bit different that the residents and their relatives could get involved in. And to add to the fun, we will be awarding a little prize for whoever’s balloon travels the furthest.”

As well as the balloon race, staff offered advice and information to help raise awareness over issues surrounding Alzheimer’s.

Ms Clay added: “All the money we made in the day will go directly to the charity, as Alpha Care Homes has agreed to pay for the balloons and material we used, which is fantastic.”