A LOSTOCK Gralam care home resident's wish to visit her family's graves in Ireland has been fulfilled – despite her being unable to travel.

Crossways Care Home introduced a 'Wishing Tree' in April to make sure residents' wishes are granted.

When Teresa Evans, 84, put in her wish to travel to her hometown in Ireland – 10 years since her last visit – she didn't think it would be possible.

Activities coordinator Charlotte Tierney decided to travel to County Meath on Teresa's behalf, taking messages written by Teresa to each grave along with specially chosen flowers.

Northwich Guardian:

Charlotte filmed her whole visit, ensuring Teresa now has a recording she can keep forever as a virtual reality experience.

Teresa said: “Oh God, I was moved, so moved. I owe everything to Charlotte for visiting my family’s graves on my behalf.”

Teresa helped plan the trip as soon as she was told about the idea, helping Charlotte to locate the graveyard and even providing photographs of each individual grave.

Charlotte said: “We thought the Wishing Tree would be a wonderful encouragement to our residents to keep on chasing their dreams.

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"I had plans to visit family in Tipperary and realised that I was in the perfect position to help Teresa’s dream come true.

"Teresa got thoroughly involved in planning my trip, although we did underestimate how long the journey would take.

"Seeing Teresa’s face when she watched the video I had filmed was really touching and definitely worth it.

“We have received lots more wishes from other residents under our Wishing Tree, so I am currently coming up with more ideas to make sure they are granted.”