Carers have expressed their admiration for the Sid Valley’s ‘very special’ Admiral Nurse to mark her first year in post.

Sidmouth Herald: Admiral Nurse Heidi Crook with Jean Bridgeman. Ref shs 10 18TI 9019. Picture: Terry IfeAdmiral Nurse Heidi Crook with Jean Bridgeman. Ref shs 10 18TI 9019. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

Celebrations were held this week at the Sid Valley Memory Café, as nurse Heidi Crook was presented with a birthday cake and a knitted Admiral Nurse, made by member Jean Bridgeman.

Carers spoke to the Herald about the impact Heidi has had on them over the last year as they look after a loved one living with the disease.

The women, who wished to remain anonymous, said the nurse was there for them as carers in a range of ways.

One carer said: “She is a good very person to talk to, most of us have families but some things we find difficult to talk to them about and because she is very open you can have a conversation that you do not want to burden your family with.

“The town is always so generous about a whole lot of big projects. There is such a need in the valley for Heidi.

“We really need to keep her because there will not be anyone if we do not raise the money.”

The memory café has renewed its efforts to raise another £55,000 this year to continue the service and has already lined up a number of events to boost their efforts.

Another carer said: “If everyone just put £1 it would be amazing. You never know if you are going to be in our position.

“We do gratefully appreciate what she is doing. She is something special.”

Councillor John Hollick, from Sidmouth Town Council said: “It was interesting to attend Wednesday’s session to see just how all involved were enjoying this facility the volunteers working very hard, week-in, week-out.

“This comes at a cost and any assistance is always welcome. I was so impressed, I offered to become a helper when needed.

“Congratulations Heidi on reaching the Admiral Nurses first birthday may there be many more. The town council is pleased to be the major supporter of this scheme.”

Adrian Ford, trustee for the memory café, said: “It is wonderful to see the difference that Heidi has made in the lives of so many families here in the Sid Valley in just one year. We are so lucky to have an Admiral Nurse in our area.”

The next fundraiser for the Admiral Nurse Campaign is a charity auction and supper in All Saints Church Hall on Friday, March 16.

Among the lots donated by businesses and supporters include meals out in a range of hotels and restaurants, a family trip to Olympian Mary King’s equestrian establishment, artwork and a family portrait session by a local photographer .

Guests are asked to bring cash and cheques on the evening which starts at 7pm.

Tickets cost £10 and are available from Paragon Books.

Read about how the year has been for our Admiral Nurse Heidi here