West Country-based Stonehaven Care are preparing to open a £900,000 extension to Chollacott House in Tavistock, one of seven homes run by the group.

The new state of the art care facilities will be officially opened at 2.30pm on Thursday September 9 by radio personality Judi Spiers.

From September 2010, a ten-bedroom specialist care facility will provide a safe and caring environment based on latest proven research into the needs of elderly people with dementia.

The new build is in keeping with the existing single storey wing and does not detract from the original features of the historic main house.

Each en-suite bedroom with WC and shower has direct level access to the secure Sensory Garden.

It is hoped that ten new full time staff will join the Chollacott team to offer all aspects of day, respite and palliative care while maintaining the family atmosphere of Chollacott.