A HAMPSHIRE care home has thrown a party for three pensioners who have lived there for a total of 30 years.

Maureen Marks, Margaret Stancliffe and Jim Giles have each been at Colten Care's Belmore Lodge complex in Milford Road, Lymington, for ten years.

Staff helped the trio celebrate by organising afternoon tea in the garden.

The pensioners tucked into finger sandwiches, a homemade sponge cake and scones with jam and clotted cream - all specially prepared by Belmore Lodge chef Oliver Bloxham.

Staff also presented them with individual gifts to mark the occasion.

Maureen received a pair of earrings to add to her jewellery collection, Margaret was given a framed picture of a cat and Jim was presented with a boxed bottle of his favourite whisky.

Companionship Team Leader Sharon Semple said: “It was a great privilege to help Maureen, Margaret and Jim celebrate their tenth anniversaries with us.

“Everything we do at Belmore Lodge is centred around the individual, from clinical care to companionship."

Margaret’s son-in-law Richard Gray said: “Belmore Lodge provides an excellent level of service in a caring and friendly environment.

“Staff in the home, both nursing and support staff, are always prepared to go the extra mile.

“My mother-in-law has lived here happily for ten years now and in that time we have always felt extremely comfortable that she is well cared for and her needs are being met in a personal and supportive way.”