A sheltered retirement home in Chesterton has celebrated a significant milestone in its history after opening its doors 30 years ago.

Ellis House, a scheme of 26 one-bed flats, provides independent living with support to over-55s and it owned and managed by Cambridgeshire housing and support provider CHS Group. Residents and staff marked the occasion with an afternoon tea party, and musical entertainment. They were joined by the Mulberry Close Residents Society who work closely with Ellis House residents, involving them in social activities and plans for enhancing the close.

CHS Group chief executive, Nigel Howlett was also in attendance to celebrate the landmark occasion. “During our 90th year we are proud to celebrate another significant milestone. It’s remarkable to see the Ellis House community celebrating its 30th anniversary and we look forward to seeing its community continuing to flourish.

“Our aim is to provide a wide range of high quality, good value homes, as well as support and care services across Cambridgeshire. When we see homes such as Ellis House reaching such a landmark, it makes us proud of what we achieve and the difference we make to the people of Cambridgeshire,” said Howlett.

CHS has three retirement home schemes, sometimes known as sheltered housing. These have been designed specifically with the needs of older people in mind. This type of accommodation suits people who are finding the management and maintenance of their home increasingly difficult or wish to downsize, some also wish to move closer to their family.