CREWE is to benefit from a community-based specialist Parkinson’s nurse thanks to the efforts of a resident.

Dennis Fricker, 83, is the chairman of the Crewe and District Parkinson’s UK branch, and has helped to raise £60,000 for the charity which will help fund the employment of specialist nurse Gill Carter.

South Cheshire and Vale Royal Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs), in liaison with Parkinson’s UK, who will provide the rest of the funding over an initial two-year period.

The nurse post will help patients receive vital information, advice and emotional support as they manage complex medication and battle to control their condition.

Dennis said: ““Parkinson’s can be extremely debilitating and can have a major impact on your day to day life.

“Being able to talk through what you’re going through every day, to get advice and find out what other people facing similar issues have found helpful, makes such a difference in life with Parkinson’s.”

Marion Rogers, Parkinson’s UK area development manager for Cheshire said: “We are thrilled that Gill has taken up this incredibly important position.

“Parkinson’s nurses are critical in managing this complex and fluctuating condition, and it’s vital that people with Parkinson’s living in Cheshire have access to specialist knowledge and support.

“This would not have been possible without the tremendous support and fundraising efforts of the Crewe and District branch. I’d like to thank members for everything that they have done to help us to be able to offer this essential support to people with Parkinson’s.”

Without community-based nurses, people with Parkinson’s may often only see a consultant once or twice a year for 15 minute appointments.

Gill has previously worked with multiple sclerosis patients.