Residents and staff at a Gloucester care home have welcomed the city’s Mayor and its Sheriff for afternoon tea.

The Mayor of Gloucester, Councillor Steve Morgan, and Lady Mayoress Sally Morgan, were joined by Gloucester’s Sheriff, Councillor Paul Toleman at the Knoll Care Home in Tuffley.

The civic dignitaries were given a tour of the home in Stroud Road, meeting staff, residents and their families, while also learning more about the programme of daily activities designed to keep residents healthy and active.

Debbie Smith, manager of the Knoll Care Home, said: “We were delighted to receive the Mayor, Mayoress and Sheriff for tea and to give them a grand tour of the home.

“It was also fantastic to show them some of the activities our residents enjoy doing, both inside the home and outside in our gardens.

“Everyone made sure our guests were made to feel very welcome and it was a great way to start 2018 with such a special visit.”

The VIP visit also saw local singer Barry Woodley entertaining guests with a variety of old-time songs, including hits from the 1940s and 1950s.

Councillor Steve Morgan added: “We very much enjoyed our afternoon at the Knoll, which was one of our first visits of the New Year.

“I’d like to thank Debbie and all her team for such a warm welcome and congratulate the staff for continuing to do such a fantastic job. You can tell straight away that the home is full of joy and laughter and that it’s a special place to be.”

The Knoll is part of the privately-owned Redwood Healthcare Group, is set within 15 acres of grounds with views over Gloucester and the Forest of Dean.

It is registered with the Care Quality Commission to provide accommodation for 34 older people who require personal care.