Chilton Mayor Cllr Sue Reece presented a £2,500 cheque at Shotley Bridge Hospital today to Haematology Specialist Care Nurses (SCN) Deborah Grimes and Jill Kelsey, alongside Kay Kirby from cancer patient support. The vital funds were raised by the local community through a series of dedicated events during the 2025/26 Mayor’s Charity campaign.
The fundraising campaign held a deep significance for the town. Blood cancer is a devastating diagnosis that directly impacts a number of families within Chilton, turning lives upside down in an instant. The emotional, physical, and financial toll of dealing with blood disorders is felt heavily by local patients and their loved ones. This shared reality brought the community together, ensuring that those fighting these conditions have the best possible care and support close to home.
Throughout the 2025/26 civic year, the Chilton community showed immense generosity. Residents, businesses, and local groups rallied together to organize and attend various fundraising functions. The resulting £2,500 donation will directly aid the essential services provided to patients in the region, offering much-needed comfort and resources during difficult treatment journeys.
During the handover, Mayor Reece extended her deepest gratitude to Chilton residents for their unwavering support and incredible community spirit. She also praised the exceptional, compassionate healthcare team at Shotley Bridge Hospital and the wider Durham Trust. The daily efforts of Haematology Specialist Care Nurses Deborah Grimes and Jill Kelsey, along with cancer support specialist Kay Kirby, the chemotherapy nurses and support staff significantly improve the quality of life for local patients undergoing treatment, providing a vital lifeline for these families. Managing complex clinical treatments, administering chemotherapy, dealing with side effects, and monitoring crucial blood counts, they bridge the gap between hospital treatment and home life, ensuring patients safely navigate their recovery.
The cheque presentation marks the successful conclusion of a phenomenal year of giving. Residents can stay updated on this years’ Mayor’s Charity community fundraising initiatives by visiting this website and following Chilton Town Council on Facebook and Instagram.
Photo left to right: Kay Kirby, Sue Reece, Jill Kelsey and Deborah Grimes
