STAFF at an upper dale GP surgery have been overwhelmed by the generosity of residents since launching their community gift tree as a way to support vulnerable members of the community.
The tree, in the porch of the Old Forge Surgery, in Middleton-in-Teesdale, was adorned with special gift tags, each representing a gift for someone in need.
Residents visiting the surgery were invited to pick a tag, purchase the gift it represents and return it to the surgery.
The brainchild of surgery managers Natalie Mitchell and Jade Hetherington, the scheme has been fully embraced by the community.
Mrs Mitchell said: “We had a big range of items on the tags, from hot water bottles, toiletries, and biscuits to warm blankets and books and after only a couple of days we were inundated with presents.”
All the gifts will be distributed to vulnerable people living locally between Christmas and New Year by County Durham and Darlington’s community paramedic.
Stephanie Markwick, managing partner, said: “The idea came about because last year we donated about 50 turkeys and pigs in blankets to the TCR Hub for the Christmas meal.
“So, this year we wanted to do something more local to help those in our practice patch.
“Natalie and Jade came up with the giving tree and everyone has been so generous.”
The practice has also been running a food donation appeal alongside the gift tree and will be making up food parcels to ensure everyone has a magical Christmas.
