A CARE home is appealing for support for a new greenhouse for its residents.

The Abbeyfield Darlington Society (ABS) is raising funds for a new greenhouse to benefit residents of care home Danby Lodge, based in Darlington, and the wider community.

The greenhouse will be specially designed to be accessible for disabled residents, and will be built for the purpose of encouraging the residents to take an active interest in gardening.

Kathryn MacColl, General Manager of the Abbeyfield Darlington Society, said: “There is a proven therapeutic link between good health and gardening and this would enhance the quality of our residents’ lives.

“Most of them are in their late 80s and early 90s, but they are incredibly independent in their outlook on life.

“We know our residents love to potter in the grounds and the addition of the accessible greenhouse would enable them to develop a keen interest in a new project, while retaining their independence and staying active outdoors.

“The aim is to grow we want to grow seasonal fresh produce such as tomatoes, herbs and plants which we use at mealtimes."

It will sit in the picturesque grounds of the building, and the former home of Sir Charles Starmer, newspaper magnate and Alderman of Darlington, and his wife Lady Starmer, a philanthropist who was involved in Darlington Football Club, Darlington Operatic Society and Darlington Brown Trout Angling Society.

The selection of seasonal vegetables and herbs will be used when prepare residents' meals in the home’s kitchen.

The addition of the greenhouse fits in with the society's ethos, which encourages older people to maintain their independence, hobbies, a range of stimulating activities, outings, events and friendships within in a secure environment.

The company also encourage "family-style living", where residents are able to receive family and friends at any time, and the greenhouse could provide a new group activity on these visits.

It is hoped the project will also benefit the wider community in Darlington.

ABS has strong existing links with Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington, as well as local schools and nurseries, who they hope to partner with on future gardening and growing projects using the greenhouse as a base.

The society would also offer of plots and space for local people to grow their own plants, and create new friendships and strengthen already existing ones.

In order to fund the new addition, which is supported by the Aviva Community Fund, a crowdfunding campaign has been set up to raise the £2,000 needed to build the structure.

To donate visit www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/abbeyfield-darlington-garden-renovation.

“We’re asking people to contribute to helping enhance the lives of older people, and others, in their area by donating to the cause,” said Ms MacColl.