A small piece of a Redhill care home has found its way to the Alps after one of its 100 special balloons turned up in Austria, travelling around 800 miles.

Acorn Court care home, run by Carebase, released the gold and black balloons as part of its annual Heart of Gold ceremony, honouring employees who have shown such great commitment and compassion in the care they give.

The event took place after care assistant Donald Fielding was presenting with his ‘Heart of Gold’ plaque and Armani watch.

Just two days later, Sarah Obwaller of St. Jakob, Austria messaged the home’s Facebook page with a photo to tell them of her family’s amazing discovery.

Monica Prosser, manager of the care home said: “We do balloon releases quite often and this was one of the least breezy days, so it’s really lovely to see it arrive there.

“Donald is new to care and an absolutely amazing ambassador for the home; he makes such a difference to the lives of everyone he meets.”

Ms Prosser also revealed that a resident gave a completely spontaneous, heartfelt speech at the end of the event praising all the home’s employees and the family atmosphere they create.