RINGWOOD retirees and their relatives joined former British Olympic champion Dame Mary Peters to celebrate the official opening of a new retirement complex in the town.

Dame Mary cut the ribbon at the McCarthy and Stone Retirement Living development, Cornmantle Court, in Parsonage Barn Lane.

After a guided tour, Dame Mary, who won the pentathlon gold medal at the 1972 Olympic Games, marked the official opening with a talk on her experiences as an Olympian and sporting ambassador, before enjoying refreshments in the homeowner’s lounge where she chatted with current homeowners and visitors.

She said: “It was a pleasure to mark the official opening of the new development at Cornmantle Court.

“I’ve been an ambassador for McCarthy and Stone for many years now and I know from homeowners who have already settled into the development how much they enjoy the quality of surroundings and friendly staff there. It was lovely to get the opportunity to meet and chat with people from the local area. Cornmantle Court really is developing into such a fun and lively community. I’m already looking forward to coming back for another visit.”

Shane Paull, regional marketing director for McCarthy and Stone, added: “We were so thrilled to welcome Dame Mary Peters and potential homeowners to Cornmantle Court. At McCarthy and Stone we are proud to help older people stay independent for longer and really make the most of every minute of their retirement.

“That is why we are so committed to delivering an exceptional lifestyle for our residents at Cornmantle Court, which boasts a beautiful setting within secure gardens, and luxuriously appointed accommodation. What’s more, with all the maintenance of all external and communal areas taken care of, homeowners can spend more time enjoying their retirement with family and friends.”