Hampshire-based charity, The Brendoncare Foundation, welcomed the charity’s patron HRH The Countess of Wessex GCVO to officially open its new development at Otterbourne Hill, on Tuesday 22 January. The Countess unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion.
Brendoncare Otterbourne Hill is the first of its kind in the UK, providing a community hub, apartments for individuals and couples and a care home offering residential nursing and dementia care, all under one roof.
The Countess was welcomed at Brendoncare Otterbourne Hill by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mr Nigel Atkinson. She was also welcomed by Mr Joseph MacHale, Chairman of Brendoncare Foundation and Mrs Carole Sawyers, Chief Executive of Brendoncare Foundation.
During the visit, the Countess was entertained by the Otterbourne Hill choir and the children from Yellow Dot Nursery. Whilst in the community hub, she met residents from the nearby Brendoncare The Old Parsonage Court. She also met with some of the generous donors who have supported Brendoncare to turn the dream of Otterbourne Hill into a reality.
The Countess also visited the care home and apartments where she chatted with residents, their families and staff.
The Countess commented on her last visit in November 2016 when she marked the official start of the development’s construction, at the ground-breaking ceremony. She described Otterbourne Hill as a ‘gem’ and expressed her pleasure at meeting so many of the residents who have made Otterbourne Hill their home.
Carole Sawyers, Chief Executive of Brendoncare, said “We are delighted to welcome Our Patron HRH The Countess of Wessex to Otterbourne Hill to officially open our new innovative service. We are so grateful for the time and support she continues to give to Brendoncare.”
More information about Brendoncare Otterbourne Hill can be found on the charity’s website www.brendoncare.org.uk or by telephoning 01962 679649.
