Hoardings brightened up with views of Northumberland to bring cheer to Berwick nursing home

Staff and residents at Tweedmouth House lost their usual superb view looking out across the River Tweed to Berwick when work got underway to restore and refurbish the historic Old Bridge at the end of October.

They were left facing several months looking out over plain wooden hoardings – until a request from management found its way to the council.

Now the usual plain hoardings have been transformed, with a stonework effect background and iconic views of the town and north Northumberland landmarks.

A Tweedmouth House spokesman said: “The hoardings have been covered beautifully and both the residents and staff are really enjoying them.

“Not only are they lovely to look at but the residents have turned them into an activity.

“They identify the pictures then we get to hear stories from them when they visited these places, bringing back happy memories for them and making them smile.”

The bridge work is the latest phase is a £800,000 project that will involve waterproofing and repairs to the masonry parapets of the Grade 1 listed structure.

It builds on the £250,000 funding already invested in its repair over the past year.

Cllr Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “When we saw the request about doing something extra to help improve the view for the care home residents over the next few months our sign shop was only too happy to make these great improvements and we’re delighted it’s brought a bit more cheer to residents during these difficult times.”The work’s also been welcomed by local county councillors.

Cllr Georgina Hill, Berwick East, said: “Construction sites are a sign of progress and investment but they are not known for being aesthetically pleasing.

"Therefore, it is great what the council have created with these hoardings. Residents of Tweedmouth House, and others passing by, have been full of compliments about them.”

Cllr Catherine Seymour, Berwick North, added: “I know that the view from inside this nursing home is fantastic looking across our Old Bridge and riverside to the town, so it was an eyesore for residents seeing the wood hoardings. Good on the council for covering them beautifully with artwork whilst heritage restoration is taking place.”

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