RESIDENTS and invited guests enjoyed an open day at the Poplars Sheltered Housing Scheme, Normans Place, Altrincham, on Saturday, May 21.

Visitors not only enjoyed seeing the redecorated complex of 20 flats with new carpets and blinds but also listened to music by Michael Bracken while drinking coffee and eating home made cakes.

Graham Brady, MP, admired the refurbishment but admitted to enjoying the cakes, too.

They were made by Sandra McManamon who was there with fellow Anchor trust team manager, Julie Evans.

Sandra said: “Anchor is one of the top housing associations in England. We offer a high standard at affordable prices.”

Manager, Janine Vanden, took guests including the provost of Altrincham, Alderman Mark Rae and the immediate past provost, Alderman Denise Laver to see some of the 10 one bedroom, two person flats, nine studios and one three bedroom flat.

Janine, scheme manager for two and a half years, said: “The residents are like my extended family.

“We arrange social activities depending on what they want. We hope to organise days out in the summer.”

Alderman Laver offered to help them find a volunteer driver.

Alderman Rae said: “I am really impressed. It is so bright, airy and modern.”

The residents included 95-year-old Marjorie Hamer, a tenant for 10 years. “I like it. It is my home,”she said.

Ellen and Alan Marsh, aged 75 and 78, respectively, said: “We like the freedom of having our own home with added security if you need it.”