Terminally-ill Bishop Auckland grandmother moved to tears after favourite pie delivered to door

Jeanette Woods, of Bishop Auckland, was diagnosed with cancer in April last year, with a life expectancy of 18 months to two years.

As her treatment affects her appetite, Mrs Wood's sister, Hazel, set herself the task of tracking down her favourite Holland's potato and meat pies to help her younger sister gain her appetite back.

After discovering the pastries were stocked by supermarket chain Heron, Hazel called the store from Manchester and spoke to deputy manager of the Bishop Auckland branch, Lisa Peacock.

"She asked if we stocked Holland's meat and potato pies and then she asked how much she would have to spend for us to deliver them," Mrs Peacock said.

"I explained that our store didn't do home delivery, but then she explained that her sister was unwell and that she really loved these pies and they couldn't buy them anywhere else.

"I asked where she lived and realised it was only around the corner and she only wanted a couple, so I offered to buy them and drop them off."

Mrs Peacock finished her shift and drove to Mrs Woods' house where she was met by Mrs Woods' husband, Bob.

"I just burst into tears," Mrs Woods said. "I had no idea she was coming, and I just thought it was so kind.

"My sister still lives in Manchester and is always sending me gifts through the post to help me, but her latest effort was the greatest surprise.

"She made it her mission to find somewhere up here that sells Hollands meat and potato pies and when Lisa walked into my living room and explained the story I was really moved by this act of kindness from a stranger."

Mrs Woods, who celebrated her ruby wedding anniversary last year, saID she is a firm believer in miracles and is determined to stay positive.

Mr Woods added: "I think it's incredible, you hear about these random acts of kindness and this is one of them, for a stranger to do something so lovely is quite special."