EAST Durham Homes new chairman Michael Bell has named Alzheimer’s Society as his charity for this year.

Members of staff were asked to make suggestions for the charity for 2015/16, and Alzheimer's Society was chosen by the chairman.

East Durham Homes have recently been involved in the societies Dementia Friends initiative, which is about learning more about dementia and the small ways that can help people.

The fundraising has already begun, with £489 being raised on a Halloween-themed dress down day, raffle and “guess the weight of the cauldron” competition held on Friday October 23.

A number of fundraising days and activities will take place throughout the year to raise money for the charity.

Mr Bell said: “It gives me great pleasure to announce that my chosen charity for 2015/2016 is Alzheimer’s Society.

"I am sure everyone at East Durham Homes will do their best to raise money throughout the year for this very worthwhile cause.”

Rebecca Scott, community fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society in the North-East said: “We are extremely grateful to East Durham Homes for choosing Alzheimer’s Society as the chair’s charity.

“As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals and organisations like East Durham Homes to help us support people to live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow.”