LOCALS are invited to meet Hampshire TV personality Esther Rantzen when she opens a new multi-million-pound housing scheme.

Dame Esther will perform a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Knights Lodge in North Close, Lymington, as well as entertaining guests by sharing a collection of anecdotes.

Knights Lodge, which comprises 41 privately-owned apartments, has been built by Churchill Retirement Living.

Daily Echo:

A company spokesman said: "Dame Esther is Churchill’s Brand Ambassador and has worked tirelessly to champion the needs of older people.

"In 2012 she founded a new charity called The Silver Line with the aim of combating loneliness. She has also worked closely with Churchill Retirement Living to set up The Churchill Awards, an annual celebration of the achievements of the over-65s."

Dame Esther, who has a home in the New Forest, is best known for presenting the consumer rights show That's Life!, which ran for 21 years.

In 1976 she devised The Big Time - the documentary series that launched Sheena Easton's singing career.

Daily Echo:

Dame Esther, 79, said: "Growing older is something to be celebrated.

"Older people have so much to offer. Many people of retirement age who are able to stay as active and involved as possible, and can spend time volunteering, trying new hobbies or socialising with friends and family, find it gives them a great sense of achievement and purpose.

“Since becoming a Churchill Ambassador I’ve enjoyed working with them to help champion the needs of older people.

The one and two-bedroom apartments at Knights Lodge are designed exclusively for the over-60s. They aim to provide safe and independent living in a convenient location near shops and amenities.

The opening ceremony is being held tomorrow at noon. Anyone wishing to attend must register in advance by calling 01590 607346.