IT WAS a day of celebrations as a new care home flung open its doors in Hampshire.
And it was made all the better when television stalwart Fred Dinenage turned out to join the party – and engaged in a bit of banter with guests.
The ITV Meridian presenter and Daily Echo columnist was guest of honour at the opening of the Sunnybank House care home in Fair Oak, where he – and his hair – became the centre of attention.
Fred met and chatted with guests including Molly Allnutt, who turned 101 on Tuesday and had come along from sister care home Tegfield House in Winchester.
Having recognised her from a previous visit to Tegfield House, Fred wished her a happy birthday and got everyone to sing to her.
Fred with 101-year-old Molly Allnutt
He even indulged in some banter with local resident Graham Hounsham, who teased Fred that his hair seemed to get darker every time he saw him, much to the laughter of staff and guests.
Fred was joined by Eastleigh Mayor Tony Noyce, who cut the ribbon in front of dozens of staff and visitors, including residents and children from Fair Oak Infant School.
The home, in Botley Road, is run by Hartford Care and will combine residential care, dementia care and nursing with 60 en-suite bedrooms.
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