A six-year-old and a 93 year-old in Luton have become friends during lockdown thanks to a penpal scheme

Despite an age gap of almost 90 years, a six-year-old and a care home resident in Luton have become firm friends after becoming penpals during lockdown. I

It's meant a lot to 93-year-old Madge Weatherhead, who was born and bred in Luton and now lives at a care home in the town called Little Bramingham Farm, run by the charity Friends of the Elderly. 

Madge Weatherhead is very fond of children as she comes from a big family.

But it's been difficult for her to see relatives recently, especially as most of them live abroad. 

So when the opportunity came up to become penpals with a six-year-old - she was only too happy to take part. 

Madge said:

Her penpal is Ella Hasselby-Davies, who lives in Bradford in Yorkshire, but has family in Luton. 

It was the six year old's idea to write to a care home resident in the area, and it's helped Madge feel connected with the outside world. 

Emma Lawrance, Care Home Manager, Little Bramingham Farm said:

And Ella says she has got a lot from the experience too.

Becca Question: "Do you feel like you've made a friend in Ella?"

Madge: "Yes I have made a friend of her, it's lovely to have a young friend."

Age is just a number between friends, and when it's safe to do so, these two are hoping to meet in person.