HARWOOD retirees and their relatives joined former British Olympic champion, Dame Mary Peters to celebrate the grand opening of the McCarthy and Stone’s Retirement Living development, Lawn Court in Harwood.

After a guided tour of the show apartments and communal areas, 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. Dame Mary was also on hand to meet and chat with homeowners and prospective purchasers who were able to quiz the sporting star about her achievements and latest projects.

Dame Mary, commented: “It was a pleasure to mark the grand opening of McCarthy and Stone’s Lawn Court development in Harwood. Retirees today are redefining what it means to grow old - we are independent, active individuals who are seeking new experiences and fulfilling lifelong ambitions, no matter what age. I’ve been an ambassador for McCarthy and Stone for many years now, and I know from homeowners who have already settled into similar developments how much they value the quality of their surroundings and the presence of friendly staff. It was lovely to get the opportunity to meet and chat with local retirees and their families at the event, and to see the community spirit which already exists at Lawn Court.”