A special garden party was held at Abbeyfield's Tresillian House residential home in Falmouth to mark the official opening of an extension.

The event was attended by families and friends of residents, as well as members of the local community and senior staff of Abbeyfield.

Guest of honour was Baroness Brenda Dean, who officially opened a two-bedroom extension to the house that was completed in June and has already been filled.

Falmouth’s mayor Geoffrey Evans then opened the fete.

Linda Harley, senior house manager at a number of Abbeyfield houses in Cornwall, described the event as “absolutely brilliant.”

She said: “It was just a very successful day. The weather stayed fine and we’ll do it again next year.”

Residents themselves manned the games and stalls selling everything to jewellery and plants to cakes, clothes and books.

Falmouth Dementia Action Alliance set up a stand to give advice and Ancient Art Falconry brought their birds of prey, which were greatly admired by young and old.

By the end of the day £375 had been raised, which will be spent by the residents – most probably on a Christmas lunch at a hotel later in the year.

Ms Harley gave special thanks to Baroness Dean for attending and opening the extension, as well as the head of Abbeyfield for attending and Mr Evans for opening the event.

“Thank you also the residents that manned the stalls and took money at the door – they really got involved. Staff gave their time for nothing; they all need thanking,” she added.