A SPECIALIST dementia care home in North Swindon has celebrated its one year anniversary.

Abbey House, based in Richardson Road, Abbey Meads welcomed its first residents at this time last summer and friends and family members got together on Sunday to mark the occasion in style.

Sheila Jolly, general manager at Abbey House, said: “We were welcoming people here today to celebrate our anniversary and to hold an open day.

“It has been a very exciting first year for us here at Abbey House. It has been a real journey meeting people and learning about their care requirements.”

The day saw a number of stalls selling various knick-knacks, tea and coffee, a bouncy castle, face painting and a barbecue.

Abbey House is equipped to care for 73 residents over three floors.

It specialises in providing both residential and nursing care for people across the dementia spectrum, from those who are physically active to people who require end of life care.

The £8m state-of-the-art home includes garden, balcony, hair salon and activity rooms.

Sheila added: “One of the good things about today has been the chance it has given for residents to mingle.

"Sometimes, when people get moved to different parts of the home, it can be difficult to keep in touch.”