Staff and residents at The Grange at Buckshaw Retirement Village near Chorley are celebrating after receiving a top award in a national housing competition. The Grange gained a bronze award in the Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) Housing for Older People Awards 2010. The award was for the Best UK Housing as part of a care scheme of 60 to 99 units. Donna Quarmby, Residents’ Services Manager at The Grange, and residents Audrey Nicholl and Jack Kenneley were presented with the award at a national ceremony held at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Donna said: “It’s fantastic to receive this award and it’s made the residents so proud, particularly because it was the residents themselves who put The Grange forward for the award.” “Although we know that The Grange is a superb facility it’s really pleasing to have an important national body endorse that view by presenting us with the award. This was the first year of the awards scheme so we will definitely be entering next year but this time we will be setting our sights on gold,” she added. The Grange offers an alternative for people who need assistance but don’t want to move into a traditional care home. Residents have their own studio or apartment and are supported in their daily activities, providing a balance between independence and support. Residents at The Grange have facilities which include a 24 hour emergency response system, a wellness centre with hydrotherapy pool, a convenience shop, restaurant, and housekeeping and linen service. Optional care packages are also available.