Jacqui Churchyard, a retired Alzheimer’s Support Worker, was in for a heartwarming Christmas surprise when she was honored as the guest of honor at Churchill Retirement Living’s Festive Cheer event at St Andrew’s Lodge in Chippenham.
Nominated as a ‘Festive VIP’ by her friends at the development, Jacqui was recognized for her remarkable dedication to helping others in the community. The event, held on December 12, treated her to festive drinks, Christmas carols performed by the St Mary’s School Choir, and a special Christmas hamper along with a £100 M&S voucher. Jacqui was joined by her colleague Sarah Cave, also an Alzheimer’s Support worker.
Churchill’s ‘Festive Cheer’ initiative gave people across the country the opportunity to nominate someone deserving of a reward for their volunteering or charity work, those feeling lonely or having faced hardships, or simply a loved one who deserved a special treat this Christmas.
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Philip Redeyoff, an apartment owner, nominated Jacqui for the award, stating, “Jacqui has become an Alzheimer’s Support Worker since she retired, and is a companion to my wife a couple of hours a week. She is a reliable and sympathetic person who cares, along with a wicked sense of humour. She makes a real difference to our lives, and we’re delighted to see her get this recognition.”
Caroline Haswell, Churchill’s marketing manager, expressed her delight, saying, “Our Festive Cheer events were designed to spread some seasonal magic, and we’re delighted to have done that for Jacqui here in Chippenham – she is certainly a very deserving winner.”