A ROMSEY care home opened up its doors to the community to mark national care home open day.

Abbotswood Court saw a variety of groups, charities and businesses visit the home for a family-friendly community event.

A number of stalls were put on as the home aimed to bring together those from different cultures and backgrounds alongside the theme of 'linking communities'.

Representatives from Romsey Men's Shed, Romsey Rapids and Oasis Books all took part, and praised the organisers for organising the event.

Gemma Ridout-Bowden, general manager of Abbotswood, said: "Through our national care home open day celebration, we managed to bring together a diversity of people from different backgrounds and professions.

"We would like to thank all those who attended and helped us deliver a memorable community day. We made a lot of new friends who we hope to see again very soon."

The open day was set up to give attendees the chance to build connections and 'motivate them to work together'.

Graham Gowman, from Romsey Men's Shed, said: "We were delighted to be involved in this great community occasion. Romsey Men's Shed aims to reduce social isolation and promote active healthy lifestyles in later life, so we were thrilled to take part in the day which also highlighted the importance of connecting with the community and being active together."

Other groups to attend included the Solent Austin 7 Club, and the Romsey Arthritis Hydrotherapy group, who demonstrated the benefits of sports and staying active throughout later life.

Kate Channing, from Romsey Rapids, said: "On behalf of the Romsey Rapids, I want to thank the organisers for inviting us to this fantastic event. We had a great time and we also got to give a preview of our toning suite which we highly recommend for the elderly and those who want to get back into fitness after suffering from illness or injury."