TELEVISION and news presenter Fred Dinenage MBE was joined by local retirees for the opening of McCarthy and Stone’s Meadowsweet Place development in Melksham last week.

Mr Dinenage, who enjoyed a successful TV career spanning more than 50 years, visited the Spa Road retirement living development to cut the ribbon at the opening.

He also shared some of his experiences as a TV presenter and provided an insight into some of the many breaking news stories he had reported on over the years.

Guests also heard first-hand about Fred’s experience of hosting much-loved quiz shows such as ‘Pass The Buck’ and ‘Gambit’; and he talked about the many factual books he has written – and ghost written – including an autobiography on the infamous Kray Brothers.

Mr Dinenage said: “It was a pleasure to visit Meadowsweet Place and give a talk on my colourful television career.

“The development provides an excellent solution for retirees looking to enjoy an independent and active lifestyle in retirement, and I enjoyed meeting and chatting to homeowners.”It’s clear everyone values the quality of life afforded by their surroundings and the freedom of having a range of services on their doorstep.”

Nicki Beswarick, marketing manager for McCarthy and Stone Southern, said: “We are very grateful to Fred Dinenage for making it a day to remember.”

“As well as having the opportunity to meet Fred and to hear about his wonderful career, visitors were able to take a closer look at Meadowsweet Place and to find out more about the quality of life on offer at a McCarthy and Stone development.”

Designed exclusively for those aged 60 and over, Meadowsweet Place comprises 31 luxury one and two-bedroom apartments, each with modern interiors.

The development provides luxury privately-owned apartments, free from external maintenance, allowing homeowners to enjoy their independence in a safe and secure environment.

The development features a Club lounge, ideal for socialising with friends, landscaped gardens, and a convenient guest suite should homeowners have friends or family to stay.

Set in a prominent location, less than 300 metres from Melksham Market Place, homeowners at Meadowsweet Place can enjoy easy access to a host of local amenities.

Now 65 per cent sold, prices for the remaining one and two bedroom apartments at Meadowsweet Place are priced from £225,000 and £304,000 respectively.

For more information, please contact McCarthy and Stone on 0800 201 4811, or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk