Residents at a new care home were delighted when Basingstoke MP Maria Miller popped in to officially declare it open for visitors.
The Barchester Healthcare-run Marnel Lodge in Carter Drive, Popley, was opened on April 8.
The Government minister for the disabled met guests at a champagne reception before unveiling a commemorative plaque.
Youngsters from Marnel Junior School sung for residents and guests in the garden.
Mrs Miller said the new centre was an important step in providing elderly care in the borough.
She said: “With the over-65s being the fastest growing age group in Basingstoke, we have got a real challenge to provide the right facilities for older people. The reason I was keen to come along today was to support this fantastic new service. It will make an enormous difference and it is good to see that we are planning for the future and older generations.”
The 62-bed centre took its first intake of residents in February after nine months building.
Maureen McDonagh, general manager at Marnel Lodge, said: “We are all very excited at the prospect of opening our new home and meeting our guest of honour.
“We will provide high quality care for our residents as well as great scenic views over fields and allotments.”
Marnel is the second care home to be opened by the company this year. In January this year, Sir John Madejski opened the 77-bed Cherry Blossom Manor in Bramley.
