A CHARITY has been set up to provide elderly people with dream outings.

The Olive Parkinson Memorial Fund aims to to do for older people what the Make A Wish charity does for sick children.

When charity fundraiser Olive Parkinson died six weeks ago aged 80, her family asked for donations in her memory rather than flowers.

The appeal was so successful enough money has already been raised to start the fund.

It will pay for trips out for the elderly residents at Mountdale Nursing Home in Leigh, where she was cared for in her final years.

Marie Edwards, matron of the home and founder of the fund, said: “I’ve long wanted to set up a grant-a-wish charity for the elderly, so their dreams can come true like those of children.

“Raising the funds was always the problem, but we had a nice lady here called Olive Parkinson and when she died, her daughter thought it was a good idea to do it in her memory.”

The first resident to benefit is John Javin, 87, who yesterday went on a trip to Arundel Castle, in West Sussex.

The grandfather was thrilled to be picked for the treat. He said: “I’ve always wanted to go to the castle, as my daughter lives near there.”

In earlier years, Olive helped raise funds and gained sponsorship from KeyMed for a garden to be created at Southend Hospital for patients and visitors to enjoy.

Her only daughter, Dale, 53, from Leigh, said: “Mum was an incredible person and did a lot for other people.

“The garden was set up in memory of my dad, Geoffrey, in 2001, because there was no open space where people could go.

“Like mum, I felt not enough was done for elderly people. Often they are left in nursing homes with not many visitors.

“The outings will give them something to look forward to. It will be amazing. My mother would have been highly delighted.”

In just a few weeks, the fund has grown to £800 with donations and events such as tabletop sales. Other outings planned for the future include a West End theatre trip and a visit to Harrogate, in North Yorkshire.

Miss Parkinson said: “It’s early days, but we have got off the ground really quickly and with John going on the first trip and three or four more lined up, it’s going well. We have one gentleman who is going to a special fish and chip shop in Harrogate with his wife.

“We take the residents out to the seafront, but it’s nice to be able to do something individually with their carers.

“It’s lovely we can make these things happen for them.”

The nursing home has 22 residents with varying nursing needs.

People will be selected for trips, based on their health. Even short term residents will have the opportunity for a day out. It is hoped at least two trips can be organised every month.

l For information or to donate, contact Marie Edwards at the home in Mountdale Gardens on 01702 421019.