Coming Together To Clap For Carers

A 98-year-old Jarrow resident will join thousands of others across South Tyneside tomorrow to show support for the NHS. 

Mrs Winnie Robb will be banging a pan to show her support for NHS staff and other key workers as part of the Clap for Carers campaign tomorrow night.

Winnie, who is being cared for her by her son Aidan during the Covid-19 pandemic, said: "I have never known anything like the current situation but the nursing and caring staff are doing a brilliant job. It is so important we all get behind them."

Winnie and Aidan were featured on Facebook last week clapping for carers with their post reaching more than 42,000 people and receiving more than 800 likes.

Winnie worked as a nurse when she first left school at the age of 14 at West Sussex Convent Hospital where she helped take care of patients, assisting with tasks such as washing, feeding and taking them for walks.

She said: "I enjoyed looking after the patients but my mam wanted me to come home to Jarrow. I regretted it in some ways but I came home. In Jarrow I did a lot of voluntary work and also helped out my neighbours. I always kept myself busy."

Winnie, who was born in Tyne Street in Jarrow, married local lad Joe Robb and went on to have two daughters and a son.

Her son Aidan had moved in to care for his mam when she became poorly just days before the lockdown started. 

Mrs Robb added: "It was very lucky that Aidan was already here. It makes me sad that I can't see my two daughters but Aidan has been very good, he is waiting on me hand and foot."

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader with responsibility for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "It is fantastic to see Winnie's passion for the NHS and I love the fact that she is supporting the Clap for Carers campaign.

"I would encourage everyone to join with Winnie and join in Clap for Carers tomorrow night for all those working tirelessly to keep us safe."