Local charity CROSSROADS CARE, which supports carers in the community, was inspired by the popular ITV series of the same name and the late actress Noele Gordon, whose story is currently being portrayed in an ITVX drama NOLLY, Nub News can reveal.

Noele Gordon, who is played by Helena Bonham Carter in the series, was hotel owner Meg Mortimer in the 70's series and one of the storylines featured Meg looking after her disabled son, Sandy.

The ITV series ran from 1965 until 1987 and attracted up to 15 million viewers at its peak.

As a result of the 'caring' storyline in 1973, Noel Crane, who was being cared for by his mother, wrote to the producer praising it for its courageous and sensitive portrayal of Sandy's story and was taken on as an adviser.

On screen Meg launched a fictional Caring for Carers which was followed by ITV donating £10,000 to a real life pilot project, the forerunner to today's massively successful charity.

One of the other stars of the series was Sue Hanson, who played Diane Lawton affectionately known as Miss Diane. Mrs Hanson, once a Twickenham resident, now lives in Walton on Thames.

She told Kingston Nub News: "At the time I remember the importance of the storyline highlighting the vital role of carers and it was a significant milestone in television. It's fantastic that the Crossroads name continues in this positive way after all this time and is delivering support to carers in the community, supporting people who are often forgotten and not recognised for the efforts and big sacrifices they make."

Sue Hanson, today, who played Miss Diane in the hit series

Julie de Costa, Chief Executive of the Richmond and Kingston branch, said: "At a time where carers are under even more pressure than ever, we're delighted that Noele Gordon and Crossroads is once again in the public eye – thanks to Nolly."

The charity has recently launched a big recruiting drive and will be holding local open days on Tuesday, February 21st and Wednesday 1st March from 3pm to 7pm at 1, Beverley Court, 26 Elmtree Road, Teddington.

There are a variety of roles available including Care Support Workers or Senior Care Support Workers for adults or children, and a Carers' Peer Support Worker. The roles are extremely varied, working within the home, caring for children with complex needs, adults with learning disabilities or older people often living with dementia. 

The peer vacancy is a new role, with the opportunity to support carers experiencing mental health issues. The charity offers flexible hours to fit around families, a comprehensive induction and training programme to ensure the very highest standard of care and support, as well as competitive pay, and health and well-being packages.

Register your interest by emailing [email protected] or calling 020 8943 9421.

Crossroads Care Richmond and Kingston Upon Thames has been providing respite for carers and their loved-ones for over 34 years, to discover more on its services, visit the non-profit's website HERE.