A RETIREMENT development on the site of an old police station is to be named in honour of Britain’s first policewoman.

McCarthy and Stone, who own other retirement homes across the region, said their latest development in Ripon, North Yorkshire would take her name.

The development, which is being built on North Road, is directly on the site of the town’s former police station.

When the home is completed in Autumn 2019, the retirement home will be known as Dawson Grange in tribute to Brighton-born policewoman Margaret Dawson.

Ms Dawson, lived from 1873 to 1920, during which she had been an active campaigner for feminist issues in the 20th century.

She is revered for her role in campaigning against trafficking of women and children, and also co-founded the Women Police Volunteers group after the First World War.

Regional sales and marketing director for McCarthy and Stone in the North-East Liz Green said: “We’re thrilled to be recognising Margaret Dawson in this way.

“She was undoubtedly a pioneer for women’s rights whose impact lead to greater equality between sexes, as well as saving the lives of many people.

“Having co-founded the first British women’s police service, and given the location of our Ripon development, we felt it was fitting to name it Dawson Grange in tribute to her.

Dawson Grange will feature both, one and two-bedroom apartments designed for people aged 60 and over, it is also anticipated that pets will be allowed.

The development will also have 24-hour emergency call points and dedicated staff on-hand to help resolve any issues.

The home will have a communal lounge and garden.

Ms Green added: “We are looking forward to becoming an integrated part of the Ripon community, and we believe that our development will play a real part in helping to bring friends and family together in later life, something we feel is important and will bring lots of positive benefits to the area.”

McCarthy and Stone has claimed there is a growing demand for retirement communities such as Dawson Grange.

The company said one in every four over 60-year-old’s said they would be interested living at a retirement home.

Whilst it said the current figure of 11.8 million people who are aged 65 and above could rise to 17.3 million by 2037.