MP Jenny Chapman took a break from the rough and tumble of parliamentary politics to enjoy an Easter-themed morning at a retirement home.

Ms Chapman, MP for Darlington, judged the Easter bonnet competition at the town's Danby Lodge and enjoyed cups of tea and treats with the residents.

She chose Catherine Burrell’s bonnet as the pick of the bunch and Danby Lodge general manager Jane Elliott said the 92-year-old was “absolutely delighted” to win the competition.

Ms Elliott added: “It was the first time that Jenny had visited us and it has been a good day for the residents and I think Jenny enjoyed herself too - even though she didn’t really want to pick a winner out of all the bonnets!”

Danny Lodge, on Ashcroft Road, is part of the national care home company Abbeyfield and has three sheltered accommodation properties within its Darlington site.