The presentation of the eighth National Dementia Care Awards is approaching, and Appleby House in Epsom is celebrating home manager Shona Bradbury being named as a finalist for the Dementia Care Personality award.

The presentation and dinner will be held on November 9 and is to be hosted by Emmerdale actor John Middleton, who was praised for his touching portrayal of a vicar living with dementia in the show.

Shona, who has worked at Appleby House since 2014, has been praised “for her energy and charisma” and for putting activities at the heart of the home.

Shona said: “I was honoured to hear that I’ve been listed as a finalist for the Dementia Care Personality award. Getting to know each resident’s personality is something I really enjoy, and I love being able to help them continue their lifelong hobbies or find new interests such as art.

“I’m delighted to receive national recognition from the care sector for my work with residents and the team at Appleby House, and I have my fingers crossed for the awards ceremony.”

Shona invited an art therapy charity to run regular sessions with residents which led to the opening of an art gallery at the home, as well as residents’ artwork being featured in many exhibitions in the area.

Shona has also built strong relationships with the local church and primary school, who frequently visit residents at the home. The home’s first open air music festival was attended by over 100 people from Epsom.