STAFF at residential and home care provider Care South have had their achievements celebrated.

The company’s Star Awards, in their seventh year, recognise teams and individuals from across the company.

The ceremony at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium also celebrated the achievements of more than 50 staff who earned qualifications during the year.

Chief executive Susan Willoughby said: “We received an incredibly high number of nominations from colleagues, residents and service users. All of our finalists and winners should be extremely proud of themselves for the exceptional commitment they have demonstrated to providing the highest quality care for our residents and service users.”

Emma Cotton from Queensmead in Christchurch won the Manager of the Year,award and Louise Ward from Home Care Bath and North East Somerset (BANES) who won Home Carer of the Year. Dorset House in Poole was named Home of the Year.

Best Care Newcomers were Edyta Sowul from Home Care BANES and Anji Hazell from Care South’s newest home, St Ives House near Ringwood.

Buxton House in Weymouth received the Pride in our Home award, whilst Best Dining Experience went to the team at Fairlawn in Bournemouth.

Marilyn Greenwood, PA to the chief executive, was awarded the Chairman’s Award for her outstanding dedication and commitment to Care South.

Staff took part in a unique ‘Oomph!’ session – an exercise activity held in each of the homes for the residents, designed to help improve their mobility.