A DALTON care home which has undergone a year of work to improve its facilities has celebrated its refurbishment with the unveiling of a plaque on the year of its 20th birthday.

Lady Cavendish joined residents and staff at Staveley House care home in Greystone Lane, Dalton, on Tuesday to celebrate the redevelopment which has seen two additional rooms and a luxurious balcony built.

The residential home, which is managed by Abbeyfield Furness Extra Care Society, opened in 1996 and now has 40 ensuite rooms, a brand new kitchenette and a refurbished hair salon.

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David Stewart, 74, chairman of the society, is delighted with the transformation and hopes that residents make the most of the new facilities.

He said: "Everybody is already keen to get some fresh air from the balcony and the views it offers out over Parkers Pond are spectacular.

"The two additional rooms means that we can look after a couple more residents because we do have a long waiting list so it benefits the community in that way.

"It's very important to keep care homes going. We have an ageing population and although people prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible there is a limit and once that age is reached we can provide 24-hour care at a place like this."

With more than 50 staff employed at the care home, residents get the chance to do a range of activities throughout the week from group baking sessions to playing on the Nintendo Wii.

Margaret Barnes, who presented Lady Cavendish with a bouquet of flowers, was admitted to the home after becoming unable to look after herself.

The 88-year-old, who has arthritis, used to live in Cross-A-Moor but is now enjoying living in the home.

She said: "I've made lots of friends and the food here is good. I really get along with everyone but it's nice to be on my own sometimes too.

"The staff are very friendly and helpful. One of my neighbours comes regularly to see me as well as my daughter who never comes empty handed."

Lady Cavendish added: "I felt very touched to be asked to come here and I am very impressed by the changes that have been made.

"I have a 93-year-old mother so I am aware of the challenges that face any of us in old age. It's lovely to be here and I have real admiration for the Abbeyfield Furness Extra Care Society.

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"Care homes are incredibly important and i just wish there were hundreds more."

The new balcony, which provides incredible views over Parkers Pond, has been named in memory of former resident Dorothy Harrison, who gave Staveley House £25,000 in her will which helped to fund the development.