The new Abbeyfield Esk Moors Lodge Bradbury Centre extra care project in Castleton was officially opened by Dame Gillian Wagner.

Dame Gillian was a former chairman of Barnardos for many years as well as serving on many other voluntary organisations. She also headed a government enquiry into eesidential care.

The centre, which has 12 one and two bedroom flats, allows older local people to continue to live independent lives, in their own communities, but with full support for their essential needs.

Esk Moors Lodge, which has been developed by the charity Abbeyfield with financial support from North Yorkshire County Council and Scarborough Borough Council, as well as numerous charitable funders.

The ground breaking intiative was co-ordinated by North Yorkshire County Council to bring 21st Century care to people in remote rural areas.

It is the centrepiece of an innovative advance in the way isolated communities care for their elderly. From the site Esk Moors Caring operates care services for older people throughout the valley.

The Bradbury Centre, is the thriving community centre at the heart of Esk Moors Lodge and is open to everyone in the local area.

Every day, Esk Moors Caring offer fitness classes, craft workshops, talks and many other events which many local residents take part in.

Esk Moors Caring, a local charity and social enterprise operates from the site, providing care services for the residents and all older people throughout the valley.

Abbeyfield Chief Executive Paul Allen said: “I am thrilled that Abbeyfield is part of the wide ranging co-operation that has led to this marvellous facility, Esk Moors Lodge and the Bradbury Centre.

“It is an excellent example of our aim at Abbeyfield which is to provide local affordable housing with support and care for older people.

“We are committed to working with local authorities such as North Yorkshire County Council in order to achieve this.”

County councillor Chris Metcalfe, executive member for adult and community services, said they are delighted to have opened the building in such a stunning location.

“Esk Moors Lodge is a realisation of North Yorkshire County Council’s vision for the future provision of care for older people,” he said.

“The 12 flats allow older people to live independently in their own homes and most importantly with this development, they can remain in their local community.”

Derek Law, corporate director of North Yorkshire County Council’s adult and community services added: “Esk Moors Lodge is already proving to be a great asset to the local area with the wide range of activities in the Bradbury Centre and being the hub of care for older people in the area. The development is a true testament to the hard work and determination of local residents.”