A POOLE care home has been rated in the top three per cent in England following an unannounced inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

Colten Care's Canford Chase in Branksome Park was officially rated as Outstanding, an achievement described as "fantastic" by Colten Care's Chief Executive Mark Aitchison.

The company has 20 care homes, four rated as Outstanding and 16 rated as Good.

A team of four inspectors from the CQC assessed the home across five areas. They are being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

Inspectors praised the home's vibrant activity programme, high standards of nursing, inclusive culture and motivated staff.

Colten Care's home are spread across Dorset, Hampshire, Sussex and Wiltshire and its 21st home, Bourne View in Poole, will welcome its first resident next month.