A RETIREMENT development in Altrincham has received a special commendation in a national awards scheme.

Speakman Court on Hazel Road is one of 76 retirement developments to have been commended in the Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) Awards, out of almost 250,000 retirement housing schemes nationwide.

The awards, now in their seventh year, celebrate the best specialist housing for older people, and aim to help shape the future of housing in later life.

More than 10,000 homeowners, staff, visitors and volunteers were all able to vote for their favourite scheme out of the 1,180 nominated between November, 2016, and February this year.

Homeowners at McCarthy and Stone's Speakman Court gave the development top marks for its high standards in every aspect - from its sense of community and busy calendar of social activities, to its convenient location, the practicality and quality of design of the individual apartments, and development facilities.

Mark Riddington, managing director at McCarthy and Stone Management Services, said: “We’re thrilled to have received a commendation in this year’s EAC Awards. This is a fantastic achievement and it recognises the efforts of Speakman Court’s dedicated on-site staff who make it their personal mission to ensure homeowners have everything they need to relax and enjoy their retirement years.

“We’re so pleased to hear just how much our homeowners at are enjoying the quality of life at Speakman Court and are making full use of all the fantastic facilities. It really does have such a close-knit community and the team works hard to ensure there are regular social gatherings including parties, fundraising events, film nights and coffee mornings – there’s always something going on.”

John Galvin, EAC’s chief executive, explained the importance of the awards: "Specialist housing for older people plays an enormously significant role in helping them stay independent for longer. The security, support and great communities have a positive impact on individuals and reduce the need for NHS services.”