Lakeside Manor is off to a flying start!

Lakeside Manor and Pavilions, the new 60-bed care home and eight stylish independent living apartments in St Peter, were officially opened yesterday by war hero Flight Lieutenant Kenneth Trent DC & Bar.

The distinctive building, designed by Robert Adam – a leading architect in traditional and classical progressive architecture – will provide quality nursing and dementia care to islanders.

Mr Trent was nominated to open the new care home by Mr Willing, Chairman of RAFA. During WWII, Mr Trent was in Bomber Command and was selected to join 617 Squadron known as ‘The Dambusters’. He flew a Lancaster bomber on missions targeting German industrial and naval bases, including the sinking of the Tirpitz battleship in 1944.

Decorated with his medals of honour and with the support of Mr Willing, Chairman of RAFA (Jersey), and Mike Parsons, Chief Executive and Founder of Barchester Healthcare, Mr Trent snipped the ribbon to mark the opening of Lakeside Manor and Pavilions. Everyone raised a champagne toast to the new home.

Mr Trent said: “It’s been an honour to open this beautifully designed home. When I flew with my Squadron, I understood just how important teamwork is and I think this applies just as much to the running of a care home. I hope all the residents enjoy making Lakeside Manor their new home.”

Rosie Goulding, General Manager at Lakeside Manor, said: "The day has been a huge success with so many familiar faces attending, and we are looking forward to welcoming our first residents to Lakeside Manor next week.”

Gina Lim, Lakeside Village Manager, said: “We are holding an ‘Open Village Weekend’ this Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, to give people the opportunity to look at the variety of services we have to offer, including the chance to visit our newly refurbished Mermaid pub and restaurant with fantastic new menus.”