SIR Mel Stride has officially opened Summerhayes Care Home’s newly renovated facilities.

The Central Devon MP cut the ribbon at the grand opening in Sandford in front of residents, staff and guests on Friday, October 17.

The extended care home now has five new en-suite bedrooms, bigger social areas, a new commercial kitchen, therapy bathroom, hairdressing salon and an upgraded car park.

“We've invested £1.5 million and it's been a year-long project with Silver Fern Developments, who've been outstanding,” said owner Andy Mason.

“We've upgraded the whole of the downstairs of the house and that upgrade has basically led to the extension with five extra bedrooms so we're now 19 beds rather than a 14-bed care home.

“It's also given us capability to offer more daycare to the local area.

“We've tried to make sure that we've kept all the historic details of the house. The key feature is, yes, it's a care home, but fundamentally it is a home.”

One of the downstairs social rooms has been named the Friendship Room after Ros Friendship, who has worked at the care home for more than 36 years. She was presented with a bouquet of flowers, alongside Deputy Manager Sharron Cook, at the grand opening.

“I think the work, energy, passion, care and love that's gone into what you've achieved here is quite remarkable and I don't underestimate the work that has been involved,” said Sir Mel after cutting the ribbon.

“It is so important, is it not, that as a civilised society everybody feels that they have a safe, warm, friendly and loving space in which to live, and you've certainly created that here.

“I've just been shown around the new extension which is absolutely marvellous.

“I will certainly be back at some point. I wish you many years of happiness and laughter and good times ahead.”