A Penrith retiree has been nominated as a 'Festive VIP' by her loved ones, winning a Christmas hamper and a £100 M&S voucher.

Carole Tattersall was made guest of honour at the 'Festive Cheer' event organised by Churchill Retirement Living at Dutton Lodge.

Selected by her friends and colleagues who believed she deserved a Christmas treat.

The event, held on December 6, included festive decorations, food and drink.

Ms Tattersall was unfortunately unable to attend the event in person owing to her health, but her friend Audrey collected the gifts on her behalf.

Audrey said: "It was wonderful to collect these lovely gifts on behalf of my friend Carole.

"She has been quite poorly so we all felt she deserves some festive cheer this Christmas, and she was absolutely delighted to be nominated for this lovely prize."

The national 'Festive Cheer' initiative by Churchill asked for nominations of deserving individuals.

Nominations ranged from those committed to volunteering or charity work, those having faced hard times, to simply loved ones considered deserving of a special festive spoil.

Churchill's Area Sales Manager Lisa Obertelli said: "According to Age UK, almost 1.5 million older people feel lonelier at Christmas than any other time of year.

"Our Festive Cheer events were designed to spread some seasonal magic, and we’re delighted to have done that for Carole here in Penrith."

The events are designed to spread seasonal joy amongst the elderly residents of the Churchill developments, which feature amenities such as an Owners' Lounge, a guest suite and a 24-hour call centre.