• The primary response area covers 2,000 square miles of Coventry. Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes and key border areas.
• The service has 15 doctors, 15 paramedics and six pilots.
• The Air Ambulance serves a population of 1.2 million.
• It has flown over 7,000 missions.
• Its call out rate is between 120 and 150 per month making it the busiest Air Ambulance in the UK.
• The average cost per mission is £1,000.
• WNAA is a registered charity and relies on public donations, fundraising activities and sponsorship. Find out more about WNAA by visiting www.wnaa.co.uk

• One bedroom second floor apartment in The Mansion House £135,000 (leasehold)
• Two bedroom semi detached cottage with conservatory £289,950 (leasehold)
• Two bedroom ground floor apartment £265,000 (leasehold)

• Plot 32, a two bedroom second floor apartment with en suite and Juliette balcony priced at £199,950
• Plot 64, a two bedroom cottage with two en suites and a conservatory priced at £250,000.
• 27 Kinglake Drive, a three bedroom semi detached chalet bungalow priced at £325,000 (resale).

Care and Support Green Paper published

• a partnership model in which both the state and the individual share responsibility for funding care. Everyone would get a set proportion - either a third or a quarter - of their basic care costs paid for by the state. To fund this new entitlement other benefits, for example attendance allowance, would be brought into social care funding. Anybody receiving an affected benefit would continue to receive an equivalent level of support. Likely costs (working with a £30,000 figure for the current average cost of a person’s care), would mean paying between £20,000 and £22,500, although some would pay more and others less.

• a voluntary insurance model. People would get the same minimum proportion of basic care paid for through the national care service, but they could then choose to take out insurance against the cost of the remaining care, through either a state-backed insurance programme or a partnership between the state and private companies. Indicative figures suggested that people would pay a lump sum of between £20,000 and £25,000 for their cover.

• the comprehensive model under which everyone over retirement age would pay into a state insurance scheme, and get the full cost of their basic care met by the state. However, everyone over 65 would have to make a contribution to the system, even though they may not ultimately receive any care. The cot could be somewhere between £17,000 and £20,000.

More Information:

Jon Gooding, Chief Executive of Retirement Villages Ltd.

The doors of Lime Tree Village’s Property of the Week are being thrown open to visitors for an exclusive viewing on Saturday 20th September. Number 1 Salemorton Court is a modern, detached two bedroom bungalow situated within Lime Tree Village, Warwickshire’s award-winning age-exclusive village.

The home boasts a living room with dining area, kitchen, conservatory, bathroom and an en-suite shower room to the master bedroom.

Residents have exclusive use of the extensive facilities, including the restaurant, bar, library and meeting rooms within the central clubhouse – Cawston House, a restored Edwardian mansion.

1 Salemorton Court is for sale at £229,950. Other properties are available for sale at Lime Tree Village. For more information call 01788 812846.


Discover more >>

Thamesfield stages Open Day

Thamesfield retirement village.

Thamesfield is throwing open its doors for invited guests to enjoy its stunning riverside setting.

Visitors will have the chance to stroll around the landscaped grounds which roll down to the Thames and be taken on a guided tour of the retirement village.

Thamesfield, in Henley on Thames, features a range of close care apartment where residents live independently while enjoying hotel style service. There is also a 10-bed nursing home with 24 hour nursing care.

The Open Day is being held on Saturday, September 13 from 2pm to 4pm.

For more information and to book a place at the Open Day please call 07729 040970 or 0845 5211857.

A century ago, a new coach house took pride of place on Middleway, in Taunton, providing a welcoming entrance for visitors to the original Blagdon Lodge.

And history is repeating itself as two new homes, built in the same form and using much of the reclaimed stone and tiles, are to be unveiled in the same spot.

The stunning stone and block built homes are the final addition to Blagdon Village, the area’s newest retirement village and are being opened to the public for the first time on Saturday, September 6.

It was hoped the original building, which was part coach house and part storage facility, could be renovated as part of the transformation of the site. But structural issues meant that wasn’t possible.

So the property was carefully demolished and rebuilt in the same form as two high-specification homes featuring the very best in modern living.

“The planning stipulations were very strict which gave us some real challenges,” said architect Peter Harding. “The building had to follow not only the style but detailed form with windows in the same positions and materials matching the original as far as possible.”

The small windows provided a particular issue as todays discerning buyers demand light-filled rooms.

“We glazed the north facing end of the building virtually from ground to roof to maximise light to the main living area,” said Peter. “We reclaimed as much of the original stone and roof tiles as we could and have used timber window frames stained silver-grey to match the weathered cedar. Cedar wood has been used on the road frontage to match the style and location of the original coach house shutters.”

With pitched, tiled roofs, both homes feature a downstairs wet room and open plan living dining area. The two bedroom Hawthorne has a study and en-suite bathroom while the three bedroom Firs boasts the floor to ceiling window, French doors and a downstairs bedroom. The interiors are completed with oak panelled doors, recessed downlighters and timber skirting and door door frames.

An open day is being held to show the coach houses off for the first time between 2pm and 4pm on Saturday, September 6.

The Hawthorne is priced at £325,000 and The Firs at £360,000. Other properties available at Blagdon Village include two bedroom cottages and apartments from £200,000.

For more information about the open weekend and properties for sale at Blagdon Village please call 01823 336192.

A variety of cheeses will be available for tasting alongside red and white wine.

Neighbours of Blagdon Village, off Middleway are invited to enjoy the delicacies in the village’s central clubhouse Blagdon Lodge on Tuesday 16 September from 6pm -8pm.

To book your free place call 01823 336192.

Dorothy and Ian Bruford requested cash donations to the St John Eye Hospital Jerusalem in lieu of gifts.

The couple have been involved with the Taunton Divisions of St John’s Ambulance since they met during the war.

And even now they are retired they continue their links with the voluntary organisation which provides first aid support and training.

Mr and Mrs Bruford, who have seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren, recently moved to Blagdon Village, the area’s newest retirement village and they staged a party for friends on their diamond anniversary in Blagdon Lodge – the village’s clubhouse. A further celebration was held in the restaurant for 25 family members.

“We met just before our 16th birthdays at a scout and guide display in Vivary Park,” said Mrs Bruford. “We married five years later after the war and, even now, we love walking through the park into town.”

And their secret to married life? “Tolerance and sharing,” said Mrs Bruford. “And enjoying a wonderful close family.”

Pic cap: Dorothy and Ian Bruford celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary.

Dr Dunning is giving an exclusive talk to residents and guests at Blagdon Lodge, in Blagdon Village, Middleway. He will be concentrating on local attractions including Taunton’s castle and priory, delving into local place names and villages and discussing the historical connections the Blagdon Village site has with children’s charity Barnardos.

The talk, with afternoon tea, is being held at 3pm on Wednesday, August 20. Places are limited. To book please call 01823 336192.

Blagdon Village is the area’s newest age-exclusive community and is minutes from Vivary Park on the site of the former Barnardo’s Princess Margaret School.

A host of charities are set to benefit to the tune of almost £500 thanks to the generosity of local villagers.

Elmbridge Retirement Village, near Cranleigh in Surrey staged its annual Summer fete with a range of stalls and activities from the traditional guess the weight of the cake to a croquet competition and line dancing display.

Around £480 was raised with stall-holders choosing the charitable beneficiary of their takings.

“Around 150 of our villagers joined in the fun,” said village manager Sue Gibson. “We were delighted to raise so much with charities benefiting including a local hospice, a scanner appeal and the RNLI.”

The 20 people who weeded, mowed and pruned their gardens for the event were invited to afternoon tea at Lime Tree Village by fellow parishioners Audrey and Ivan Upton who live at the age exclusive village near Rugby.

A DVD of the open garden event, staged in aid of St Mark’s Building Fund was shown during the afternoon. And the visitors had chance to wander round the landscaped gardens and woods which make up the village grounds.

Emily’s mum Lisa met the Princess when she was a little girl and her cattle-breeding family were presented with a winner’s trophy at the Royal Cornwall Show.

Emily’s great grandma is a resident of Roseland Nursing Home, part of Roseland Parc, Cornwall’s unique age exclusive community in Tregony, near Truro.

“I was really excited about meeting the Princess,” said Emily, a pupil at St Mewan school. “She asked if I’d had to wait very long and I said ‘quite a long time’.”

Princess Alexandra was greeted at Roseland Parc by cheering children from Tregony and Wadebridge primary schools.

Dressed in a green silk outfit, accessorised in cream, Princess Alexandra delighted the youngsters by stopping for a chat before meeting an official line up of civic dignitaries.

HRH was then presented to directors of Retirement Villages - developers and managers of Roseland Parc.
 

She was taken on a tour of the village by Retirement Villages’ chief executive Jon Gooding and Roseland Parc founder Heather Fairbairn.

She was invited in to resident Mrs Cynthia Dening’s apartment and also spent time in Mr Roger and Mrs Elizabeth Sharratt’s home. Her tour included the village’s fitness room, swimming pool, the landscaped Palm Garden, the sanctuary and hairdressers.

“HRH seemed genuinely interested in Roseland Parc and its residents,” said Mr Gooding. “She went out of her way to meet as many of our residents as she could and they were delighted to have the opportunity.”

After mingling with guests, HRH unveiled a specially-commissioned plaque marking the official opening. She said: “I am very impressed with what I have seen here and I pray that you will all have a happy future here.”

HRH signed the visitor book before leaving for her next appointment in Truro.

Mrs Fairbairn said: “It has been a fantastic occasion for everybody at Roseland Parc and an important milestone in the life of the village. HRH was very enthusiastic about meeting everyone and we were grateful for her warm wishes for the future of the village.”

And, as well as enjoying the award-winning gardens and meeting the residents, the sale of refreshments raised £50 which is being donated to the Village’s chosen charity The Hospice of St Francis in nearby Northchurch.

The Royal visitor is set to officially open the age-exclusive community in Tregony on Thursday 3rd July (NB: this Thursday).

Local dignitaries, residents and children will be on hand to meet the Princess who will be taken on a tour of the village and be asked to unveil a bespoke slate plaque.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Her Royal Highness to Roseland Parc,” said village manager Derek Pashley. “Roseland Parc is growing into a thriving community and the official opening marks an important step.”

Princess Alexandra is the Queen’s first cousin and the sister of the Duke of Kent and Prince Michael of Kent.

Her association with Roseland Parc’s developers Retirement Villages dates back to 1984 when she performed the official opening ceremony at Elmbridge Retirement Village in Cranleigh, Surrey.

Green residents have come up with their own solution to a recycling dilemma, ensuring the majority of their waste can be reused.

As a private development, Castle Village in Berkhamsted has just one rubbish point for council refuse collections.

The limited space for bin storage meant residents of the age-exclusive lifestyle community were unable to recycle their glass, plastic and paper.

After discussions between the council, residents and village staff a solution was settled upon. The village’s maintenance men cleared an area of their compound and built a special recycling hut where bins could be stored.

Council recycling bins, complete with explanatory signs, are now safely housed for residents to use and refuse collectors to empty.

“Our residents are very environmentally aware,” said village manager Cathy Whysall. “They have been very keen to ensure everything that can be recycled is recycled. Now we have the dedicated recycling facility on site they are busy sorting their plastic and paper from their non-recyclable waste and the council is collecting it.”

The Blagdon Village Salon is set to offer hairdressing, beauty and complementary therapies to the growing number of residents.

And already bookings for the services are flooding in.

“Every day the village feels more like a community and this is just another way of building that feeling and providing an extra service,” said assistant village manager Clair Crowther.

Clair, a qualified complementary therapist, will be swapping her desk and phone for a couch and massage oils one afternoon a week offering reflexology, aromatherapy, hot stone therapy and massage.

She will share the salon with hairdresser Amanda Nicholls, who has been based in Taunton since qualifying five years ago and beauty therapist Amanda Newell who will be offering a full range of therapies including manicures and pedicures.

“We’re all very excited about the opening of the salon,” said Clair. “If the salon is the success we expect it to be we will look at extending our hours and services.”

Visitors are being invited to enjoy the stunning grounds which include a manicured croquet lawn, wildflower meadow and tranquil Japanese garden.

Light refreshments will be available during the afternoon on July 5 and staff will be on hand to explain more about the Village which offers a wide range of facilities and activities for residents.

Castle Village, off Gravel Path in Berkhamsted, is an age-exclusive community where residents have the independence and freedom of owning their own home with a secure environment.

Castle Village will be open between 2pm and 4pm on Saturday, July 5. For more information please call 0845 5211857.

Residents are being offered their first glimpse of the prestigious new development now under construction on the outskirts of Mayford.

A detailed scale model of Mayford Grange, an age exclusive lifestyle community, is now on display at Sutton Green Golf Club which is adjacent to the site. Newsletters offering more information about Mayford Grange and developers Retirement Villages are also available at the club.

The former Loampits Farm and its buildings have now been demolished and work is underway to build 46 high specification apartments - aimed at the over 65s - in a courtyard setting including a central clubhouse and extensive landscaped gardens.

The show apartment is set to open next spring with the first residents due to move in Autumn 2009.

With carpets, curtains and light-fittings throughout and a well-equipped kitchen, including integrated dishwasher, washer-dryer, fridge-freezer and eye level cooker, the cottage is ready to move into.

There is a bustling community at Lime Tree Village – the area’s only lifestyle village for the over 55s – with a host of regular activities centred around the restored Edwardian mansion Cawston House and the beautifully-landscaped gardens.

The cottage is priced at £189,999. For further information or to arrange a viewing please drop into the sales office at Lime Tree Village, Dunchurch, near Rugby CV22 7SA or telephone 01788 812846.

“Thankfully, we loved it,” laughs Mrs Forrester. “In fact, we walked through all the rooms saying how beautiful everything was.”

The couple had reserved their two bedroom apartment at Blagdon Village, Taunton’s exclusive lifestyle village for the over 60s, on the day they first visited.

One more visit, while the apartment was still under construction, saw them choosing curtains and carpets from sample books. And the next time they drove into the village was the day they moved in.

“I suppose some people could see it as slightly rash but, after three years of looking at unsuitable properties, we knew this was the right move for us,” said Mrs Forrester.

The couple were keen to downsize from their family-sized three bedroom home in Cheshire and return to Mrs Forrester’s roots in the south west.

“I found Retirement Villages on the Internet,” said Mrs Forrester, who’s 66. “Blagdon Village was in the south west, near the sea, within walking distance of the town centre and close to beautiful countryside.”

The couple reserved their ground floor apartment with big patio doors and open plan living space off plan and moved in in February.

“It’s wonderful to be back in the south west and there are so many places nearby to explore,” said Mrs Forrester. “I’ve joined a couple of groups held in the village and we’re also getting out to meet people in the town too.

“We’ve got everything we hoped for – a community of like-minded people and a beautiful home and surroundings with none of the hard work.”

Blagdon Village is a lifestyle village exclusively for the over 60s in Middleway, Taunton. Apartments and cottages are available priced from £205,000 to £270,000. For more information call into the sales office between 10.30am-5pm, ring us on 01823 336192.

He’ll be sharing anecdotes from his 40 years in the business with residents of Castle Village on May 27 in a talk called ‘Laughing at Life’.

“We are delighted to be welcoming Vince to Castle Village,” said resident Eric Parry, a production director at Thames TV where Vince did a lot of his work. “He has worked with some of the television greats and I’m sure he will have some fantastic tales to share.”

Residents pay a nominal fee for lunch and the talk with proceeds being given to the Residents’ Association.

Penlee House was originally built in the late 1830s by the Tregony Borough Corporation for use as a rectory. In August 1987, the then Grade II listed house, was opened as a seven-bed residential home with a live-in nurse matron. It quickly gained a reputation for excellent care and home cooked food.

Gradually, over the years, the home was extended and the registration increased to include full nursing care. In 2004, following the completion of an eight-bedroom extension it was registered as a 31-bed nursing home.

In May last year residents and staff moved to the neighbouring purpose-built 37-bed Roseland Nursing Home set in the landscaped gardens of the new Roseland Parc Retirement Village, developed by Retirement Villages.

“This site has seen many residents and staff over the last 20 years and has grown to become the wonderful place it is today,” said Village Manager Derek Pashley. “We wanted to recognise that with a special event.”

A plaque is set to be unveiled during the celebrations on Saturday, May 24.

Photographers are welcome to attend the plaque unveiling at 3pm on Saturday, May 24 at Roseland Parc, Tregony, near Truro. Please report to Village Manager Derek Pashley in the first instance.

And demand is expected to be high for the two bedroom properties which boast conservatories and two en suite double bedrooms.

Blagdon Village, in the sought-after Haines Hill area of Taunton, has proved extremely popular with buyers looking to secure not just a home but a lifestyle they can enjoy in their retirement.

The three newly-released cottages are towards the rear of the Village with green space behind them. The ground floor has a fully-fitted kitchen with doors through to the lounge and dining area. Double French doors lead out into the conservatory and there’s also a downstairs cloakroom. Upstairs are two double bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom and the other with an en suite shower room. The well-equipped cottages come with parking spaces.

As well as living in a community of like-minded people, residents have access to the purpose-built communal facilities in Blagdon Lodge and the growing number of groups, clubs and activities being set up in the village.

“People who choose to move to Blagdon Village aren’t just buying a property they’re buying into a lifestyle,” said sales advisor Helen Pyett. “The apartments at Blagdon Village are proving very popular but a lot of people prefer the familiarity of a house which is what the cottages offer.”

The cottages at Blagdon Village are priced from £259,950. For more information or to arrange a viewing please call the sales office on 01823 336192.

Daisy is a five-year-old Shih Tzu and since she moved to Roseland Parc with owners Mike and Valerie Juett she’s been making a lot of new friends.

Having read about the Pets As Therapy charity which introduces dogs, cats and rabbits to poorly or disabled children and older people, Mike knew Daisy would be perfect for the job.

“She’s such an exuberant little dog who loves cuddles and fuss,” said Mike. “When we take her and our other dog Poppy for walks they get a lovely reaction from people we meet. For dog lovers who no longer have their own pets having the chance to cuddle and stroke a dog can be really special.”

Now, once a fortnight, Mike takes Daisy into the Roseland Nursing Home to visit some of the residents. And she’s proving a very popular visitor.

“Seeing the residents with Daisy is lovely,” said Roseland Parc activities co-ordinator Lynn Trudgeon. “As they’ve got to know Daisy they have started to look forward to her visits. We hold as many activities as we can so that residents can continue interests they may have had before they moved here. For those who’ve always kept pets, Daisy is a welcome reminder.”

Mike was one of the first residents to move into the village’s independent living apartments but it’s Daisy who’s made her mark.

“I was walking through the gardens recently and one of the Nursing Home ladies pointed me out to her friend and said ‘that’s Daisy’s dad’,” said Mike. “I knew I’d arrived then!”

Residents of the village, exclusively for the over 60s, in Tregony, near Truro can now enjoy their favourite meals safe in the knowledge they’re also healthy and made from locally-sourced ingredients.

Presented by Carrick District Council, the award recognises high standards of food hygiene, healthy menu options and the use of locally-sourced ingredients.

To achieve the highest gold standard, chef Hayden Treneary reworked some of the residents’ most popular dishes introducing Lo-salt seasoning, replacing cream with crème fraiche and using less sugar and more dried fruit to sweeten desserts.

“We also noticed that where meal options featured on the menu mattered,” said food and beverage manager Liz Kingdon. “We moved fresh fruit salad to the top of the dessert menu and people requested it more regularly. And the balance of meals was changed – increasing the size of vegetable portions.”

Kitchen and dining room staff were given guidance so they could advise diners on healthy options including pasta, rice and salads.

“At Roseland Parc we have always had very high standards so it only needed a few small, but important, changes to achieve the CHEFS award,” said Liz. “We’re delighted to have reached the highest standard which demonstrates our commitment to providing our residents with the very best meal options.”

Roseland Parc is a purpose-built lifestyle village for the over 60s owned by Retirement Villages and encapsulating a range of options from independent living apartments to a nursing home.

The event, being staged at Blagdon Village, is set to boost the coffers of Barnardo’s, former owners of the site off Middleway in Taunton.

The event on Tuesday, April 22 will feature fashions by upmarket label Phase Eight and advice from a Colour Me Beautiful style consultant.

A raffle on the night will raise money for Barnardo’s.

Blagdon Village’s fashion event will take place in the village’s central clubhouse Blagdon Lodge between 7pm and 8.30pm. Light refreshments will be available. The limited number of tickets still available are free but must be booked in advance by telephoning 01823 336192.

But when Brian died suddenly on an extended holiday in Canada 18 months ago, Spain stopped feeling like home for Maggie.

“I’d never liked the heat so we used to go on long summer breaks to cooler climates,” said Maggie. “My first grandchild, Maddy, had just been born back in the UK and, although the medical system in Spain was excellent, I knew I would probably need surgery on an on-going back problem. As a former nurse, I wanted the security of the NHS.”

And so Maggie made the decision to go against the grain and, rather than retiring abroad, move back to the UK.

“I know a lot of people dream of retiring abroad and we were lucky, Brian was a very successful businessman and we were able to enjoy a good lifestyle,” said Maggie, who’s 70. “But there were more reasons to come back than to stay.”

Keen to return to Taunton in Somerset, her family home for 25 years, Maggie explored her options carefully.

“I had a strict requirement list,” said Maggie. “I wanted an apartment so there were no stairs, lift access, a nice neighbourhood and to be part of a community.”

Maggie had seen Blagdon Village, an exclusive development for the over 60s in the sought-after area of Haines Hill, advertised.

“Brian and I were aware of the retirement villages concept from trips to Australia and we’d always said it would be great if there were similar places in this country. Now I’d found one and it was in Taunton which I already knew and where I had lots of friends.”

Maggie visited the site in July last year and, after looking round the two bedroom show apartment in Middleway House, reserved it on the spot.

“I just knew it was the perfect place for me,” said Maggie. “It ticked all the boxes as well as having lots of facilities and a real community feel.”

Maggie sold her apartment in Spain and has now moved into her second floor apartment with views over Taunton.

“It’s everything I hoped it would be,” said Maggie. “Some people struggle to adjust to apartment living after being in a family home but I’d already made that adjustment in Spain. I’ve joined a Bridge group in Taunton, made new friends in Blagdon Village and seen lots of Maddy.

“Some people are surprised I moved back from what they see as the perfect life in Spain but this feels like home.”

Blagdon Village is a lifestyle village exclusively for the over 60s in Middleway, Taunton. Apartment and cottages are available priced from £205,000 to £360,000. For more information call into the sales office between 10.30am and 5pm, ring us on 01823 336192.

And an invitation is being extended to anyone who is currently retired or planning for their retirement.

The workshop at Roseland Parc in Tregony, will feature presentations from financial advisors - including information about equity release, an interactive session with a representative from the Cornwall/Isles of Scilly Primary Care Trust featuring tips on health and wellbeing, a talk by the Truro branch of the National Trust plus holiday company Saga will be revealing their latest destinations and offering the chance to win a holiday.

There will also be the chance to view the latest show apartments at Roseland Parc, an exclusive lifestyle village for the over 60s.

Property Sales and Marketing Director for Roseland Parc’s developer Retirement Villages, Sarah Burgess, said: “As a retirement developer we are very aware of the issues and concerns facing people who are starting to think about their retirement, as well as those in the midst of it. The workshop will provide an invaluable opportunity to address many of the key questions facing this age group.”

The Retirement Seminar at Roseland Parc is being staged on Wednesday, April 23 from 3pm to 5pm. Places are limited. To book please call 01872 530888

The village at Tregony, near Truro, developed by Retirement Villages, received the recognition in the Best Assisted Living Development category in the Daily Telegraph Your New Home 2007 Awards.

The panel of judges which included industry experts, property writers, designers and architects looked at the quality of environment offered and the support services available which allow residents to retain their independence.

Village manager Derek Pashley collected the award at a glittering ceremony at the Globe Theatre in London. “We are delighted that Roseland Parc has received this prestigious award which is recognition not only for developers Retirement Villages but for the dedicated team of staff and the residents who are building a vibrant, active community.”

The annual Your New Home Best Development Awards mark the highest standards of design, innovation and craftsmanship across 15 categories and are open to new home developers across the country.

A price reduction on this two bedroom cottage at Lime Tree Village, an exclusive development for the over 55s, makes buying into this lifestyle more affordable than ever.

The Retirement Villages development, in Dunchurch, near Rugby is centred around Cawston House, which boasts a host of facilities available to residents and invited guests only.

The final phase of building work is now complete and the village has developed a strong identity with dozens of clubs, groups, associations and classes taking place every week.

This two bedroom cottage is one of the few remaining and the inclusion of carpets, curtains and light fittings in the selling price make it a sought after property.

Downstairs the cottage has a hall, guest cloakroom, a 17ft (5.2m) lounge/diner and a fully integrated kitchen included eye level double oven and hob, dishwasher, washer/dryer, fridge, freezer and even the finishing touch of a wine rack.

Upstairs, both bedrooms have en-suites – one with a bath and hand held shower, the other with a fully-tiled shower cubicle.

With staff on hand to carry out external maintenance of properties, surrounding gardens and communal areas and domestic staff to provide an hour’s cleaning every week and the washing of bed linen, residents have plenty of free time to do as they please.

“This is the ultimate lifestyle for people who have spent their life ‘doing’ and now just want to enjoy ‘being’,” said sales and marketing director Sarah Burgess. “You don’t just buy a cottage, you buy all the facilities on site and the lifestyle that comes with those.”

The two bedroom cottage in Marton Court, Lime Tree Village is available for £189,999. For more information call into our sales complex open seven days a week from 11am to 5pm, visit www.retirementvillages.co.uk or telephone 01788 812846.

Over 55s from Tregony and the surrounding area will be welcomed in to use the Spa-style facilities including swimming pool, hot tub and fitness suite, set within the picturesque grounds of the award-winning retirement village.

The monthly fee of £30 will entitle members to use the facilities between 11am and 4pm.

The leisure club also has an on-site physiotherapist and hair and beauty salon – available for appointments at an additional cost.

For more information please contact village manager Derek Pashley on 01872 530971. Spaces are limited.

Coffee mornings are being held at 10.30am on Tuesday, April 22 and Tuesday, June 17.

Afternoon tea for guests is being hosted at 3pm on Tuesday, May 20.

To book your place please call Roseland Parc on 01872 530888.

That’s exactly the chance being offered at Lime Tree Village – the area’s only village exclusively for the over 55s.

The village is hosting afternoon tea for current residents and anyone interested in moving to the village in Dunchurch near Rugby on Tuesday, March 11 between 3.30pm and 4.30pm.

Guests will be invited to enjoy tea, coffee and cake in the beautiful surroundings of Cawston House – the centrepiece of the village – and find out first hand from residents just what life is like at the award-winning village. Show homes will also be available for viewing.

To reserve a place for afternoon tea please call Lime Tree Village on 01788 812846.

And she’ll be on the hunt for even more since adding a new client to her ever-expanding list.

Zoey has been named as the restaurateur at Blagdon Lodge, the central club house for Blagdon Village, Taunton’s newest lifestyle village for the over 60s. And she’s looking forward to cooking up her traditional dishes for the residents.

“I specialise in providing quality fresh food, well presented,” said Zoey, who lives in Taunton. “It will be perfectly complimented by the beautiful surroundings at Blagdon Village.

“I endeavour to include as many locally grown vegetables and fruit in my recipes as possible and I use locally reared beef and poultry too. That way I know just where my ingredients have come from, can support the local economy and provide the freshest food possible.”

It was the residents which attracted Zoey to her new role. “They were so warm and friendly when I visited that I knew I’d enjoy cooking for them,” said Zoey.

The introduction of Zoey, who will be starting off by providing Sunday lunches and staging theme nights in the restaurant, marks the latest stage in the life of the village, which sees new residents moving in virtually every week.

To mark the achievement the village was presented with a cheque for £500 during the judges’ visit - which the village is donating to the locally-based John Banfield Charity which buys Christmas gifts for orphans and the elderly.

“We are delighted to have reached the shortlist for such a prestigious award,” said Paul Walsh, care director for Roseland Parc owner Retirement Villages. “It is testament to the hard work of all those involved in pulling this development together.”

The winner of the award will be announced at a gala presentation at Lords cricket ground in April.

The awards seek to acknowledge the contribution made by the designers, architects and owners of care homes, hospitals and other care schemes to the well-being and quality of life of those in their care.

The Lodge’s doors are being thrown open this Saturday (February 16) for a special Open Day designed to give visitors the chance to see inside the one-off detached property. Sales staff will be on hand to show visitors around The Lodge and the village between 2pm and 4pm.

“This really is a stunning property which would make a wonderful home for people to live in and enjoy the fantastic facilities and lifestyle which Lime Tree Village can offer,” said sales manager Laura Benson.

The Lodge is priced at £349,950. For more information – and to book an appointment for the Open Day - contact the sales office at Lime Tree Village. Telephone: 01788 812846.

As a finalist he attended the glittering awards ceremony at the Hilton London Metropole Hotel, hosted by Esther Rantzen.

“Of course I would love to have won but it’s been an amazing experience,” said Kevin, who lives in Maidenhead. “To be recognised for something I love doing is fantastic.”

Kevin, whose pastry is regularly praised by diners, cooks for around 35 residents every day – dishing up breakfast, lunch and dinner at Thamesfield, in Wargrave Road, Henley-on-Thames.

Existing farm buildings on the site, which is adjacent to a golf course, have been demolished to make way for the village.

The developer - Retirement Villages - is working with consultants and Woking Borough Council to create a scheme which sets new standards in energy saving.

The first properties are expected to be ready for occupation early next year.

And their anniversary was marked with a special presentation by Village Manager Sue Gibson, on behalf of owners Retirement Villages.

“We were delighted to present our silver anniversary residents with flowers and champagne to celebrate their 25 years living in the village,” said Sue. “It’s testament to everyone here that we have a community people want to continue being part of for so long.”

A plaque marking the opening was unveiled by Mayor of Taunton Deane Ken Hayward in front of VIP guests, residents and directors from developers Retirement Villages and its partner in the venture Barnardos.

“The opening of Blagdon Lodge marks an important and exciting stage in the development of the village,” said Retirement Villages’ property sales and marketing director Sarah Burgess. “The Lodge offers first class facilities for residents and is a real sign the village is coming to life.”

When completed, the village will boast 85 privately-owned properties. Apartments at Blagdon Village are available from £195,000. Show apartments are open daily 10.30am-5pm. Tel: 01823 336192.

Open to the public, the exhibition is being staged in the newly-opened Blagdon Lodge, the main clubhouse at the Retirement Villages’ development off Middleway, in the sought-after Haines Hill area of the town.

Purpose-built Blagdon Lodge, topped with an ornate clock tower, is the focal point of the village featuring restaurant, bar, library and function room for the use of the residents. Built by developer Retirement Villages, it also houses some of the 85 privately-owned properties on the site.

“Blagdon Lodge is being officially opened the previous day so this will be the first chance for a lot of people to visit,” said Retirement Villages’ sales and marketing director Sarah Burgess. “We are really proud of the Lodge and the facilities it will provide for residents and are looking forward to showing it off.

“With some of the county’s leading craftsmen showing their work at the exhibition there will be plenty for people to see.”

The exhibition is open between 10.30am and 4.30pm on Saturday, November 24. Show apartments at the village will also be open for viewing until 5pm. More information about Blagdon Village is available by telephoning 01823 336192 or visiting the website www.retirementvillages.co.uk

Figures gathered by the Alliance Trust show 43 per cent of adults in this country expect property to be a top contributor to their income in retirement – an increase from just 31 per cent last year. The belief that company pension schemes will fund them in later life has slipped back from 40 per cent to 36 per cent.

And, according to experts in the retirement field, those expectations are already coming to fruition.

Sarah Burgess is the sales and marketing director for Retirement Villages, a major player in the development of lifestyle villages for the over 60s including Roseland Parc, in Tregony, near Truro in Cornwall.

“Many of the people who have moved into Roseland Parc have downsized from family homes,” explained Sarah. “In doing so they have released equity built up over many years enabling them to buy a smaller property outright as well as giving them a nest egg to fund their retirement. For some that money has enabled them to buy a second property abroad, to take regular holidays or to help out family.

“Others have invested the money they made on selling their bigger property to ensure they have a regular income during their retirement.

“People no longer rely on pension funds like they used to and property is currently seen as the best long-term investment. People reaching retirement now who bought their first home in the late 60s or early 70s will have seen a massive rise in the value of their property which opens up lots of financial options for them if they choose to release that equity.”

Other sources of income identified by people in the survey include a personal pension, inheritance or windfall, a partner, stockmarket investment and business ventures.

Properties at Roseland Parc are now available priced from £169,000.

For more information telephone 01872 530888 or visit www.retirementvillages.co.uk

Guests at the official opening on Friday, November 23 will include the Mayor of Taunton Ken Hayward, Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset Brian Tanner and leader of Taunton Deane Borough Council Ross Henley. Representatives from developers Retirement Villages and its partner in the venture Barnardos will also attend the plaque unveiling.

“We are delighted to be hosting this opening ceremony for Blagdon Lodge,” said Retirement Villages’ sales and marketing director Sarah Burgess. “This is an important and exciting stage in the development of the village. The Lodge offers first class facilities for residents and is a real sign that the village is coming to life.”

Apartments at Blagdon Village are available from £195,000. Show apartments are open daily 10.30am-5pm. Tel: 01823 336192. www.retirementvillages.co.uk

Machinery is now moving on to the site on Westfield Road, adjacent to the golf course, to remove existing farm buildings, work which is scheduled to take around six weeks. Building work will then begin in January.

The plans include a pledge by award-winning developers Retirement Villages Ltd to improve Westfield Common – the area to the front of the site – re-instating grassland and providing a new vehicle access, enhancing the facility for local people.

And the development will have some of the greenest credentials possible for a new build scheme with Retirement Villages working with consultants and Woking District Council to introduce energy conservation systems where possible.

Project director Julian Merrick said: “It is exciting to see work starting, marking the beginning of the transformation of the site into what, we feel, will be a valuable service to people living in and around the area.”