Strangers help a Stamford family to make treasured memories as they prepare for their last Christmas together

A mum and daughter are overwhelmed by the kindness of strangers who are helping them make treasured memories.

Audrey Steward is receiving end-of-life care after being diagnosed with throat cancer, but people are going out of their way to brighten the time she has left.

Her carer Kerry Regis has helped to arrange a string of treats following a chance conversation during one of her visits.

Owner of The London Inn, Nick Pistolas, had offered to pay for a hot air balloon flight and a visit to The George Hotel but they were put on hold for lockdown.

Instead landlords of the Lakeside Bar at Tallington Lakes provided an afternoon tea for Audrey to enjoy at home last week and an anonymous donor is paying for Audrey to have her hair done when the salons reopen.

The gestures have made “a huge difference” to Audrey and her daughter Claire Frith, who live together in Stamford.

Claire said: “It means the world to us. It’s surprising how kind people can be.

“We felt quite alone when mum was first diagnosed but everyone has been so kind and we can’t thank them enough.”

Audrey was diagnosed with cancer five months ago. She doesn’t know how long she has left to live but the tumour is growing quickly and the family know this will be her last Christmas.

Claire said: “Mum didn’t want hospital intervention. It was her choice to carry on with life while we can and to spend time together making memories.

“We couldn’t afford to do all these things for her, so for other people to make Mum happy, even just for a day, makes such a difference.”

The 72-year-old’s remaining wishes are quite modest.

Audrey would love to enjoy a spa day, a nice meal out and a trip to see some Christmas lights.

Claire and Kerry hope they will be able to make some of these dreams come true once lockdown is lifted next week.

Kerry said: “It has been my pleasure to help arrange these things for Audrey and it reminds me why I do this job. It’s amazing to see people’s kindness when times are hard.”