A CARE home has celebrated 20 years of providing specialist care for elderly residents by holding an anniversary party.

Since it opened in January 1993, Aycliffe Care Home in Newton Aycliffe has provided 24 hour care to more than 450 residents.

And, to mark the major milestone, staff, residents and family members joined together for a special party, complete with a birthday cake and refreshments.

Members of the public were also invited to look around the purpose built 54 bedded home, which is owned by Akari Care and aims to maintain lifestyles as similar as possible to those enjoyed at home.

Doreen Bonnar, Aycliffe Care Home Manager, said: “I am very proud of the 20 years of excellent care that the home has provided residents.

“Many members of staff have worked at the home for more than 10 years and have a wealth of knowledge of the care sector, ensuring a high quality and consistent standard of support throughout the years.

“Everyone enjoyed the party to mark this fantastic achievement and we look forward to celebrating many more successful years together.”