A family-run care home rated "Good" by the Care Quality Commission has received a national accolade.
Oaklands Rest Home in Marchwood landed the Management Team of the Year title at the Caring UK Awards after beating a record number of rival contenders.
Hosted by TV personality Des Coleman, the glittering ceremony was attended by more than 500 people.
The home's director, Samir Patel, said: "This exceptional recognition is testament to the dedication, compassion, and outstanding commitment of the entire Oaklands team.
"Our staff's commitment to excellence has undoubtedly made a significant difference in the community, and it is heartening to see their efforts recognised on a national level.
READ MORE: Marchwood care home stages 'emotional' reunion for siblings
"It’s not the management alone, but the collective spirit, collaboration, and hard work that makes Oaklands such an extraordinary and award-winning establishment.”
The annual awards are organised by Script Events in partnership with Caring UK.
Event director Dominic Musgrave said: "This year’s winners should be very proud – the high standard of entries made it a tough job to select a final shortlist, never mind a winner and runner-up in each category.
"Our awards night was a great celebration of the care industry as a whole and it was great to see so many businesses represented at the event.
"It was a wonderful evening and it was lovely to share in the celebrations of the winners."
READ MORE: Oaklands Care Home resident taken to Bournemouth for plane spotting
The judges included Matt Williams, associate director of Marie Curie, and Lynne Reedman, founder of DUET Diabetes Limited.
An Oaklands spokesperson said: "They were impressed with how Oaklands’ management enables the staff to deliver outstanding care and a fantastic experience for residents.
"The care industry can be challenging and the management team works hard to create a positive environment."
The spokesperson said "numerous" initiatives to boost staff morale included award nights and an employee of the month event that focused on staff who went above and beyond.
They added: "Oaklands has shown they are an integral part of the local community, hosting regular events.
"The management team has built strong connections with residents' families. Some family members have gone on to join the Oaklands team or volunteer to show their appreciation for the outstanding care Oaklands provides."
The home's latest Care Quality Commission inspection was carried out earlier this year.
The report said: "The service was consistently managed and well-led. Leaders and the culture they created promoted high-quality, person-centred care.
"Managers and staff are clear about their roles and understanding quality performance, risks, and regulatory requirements."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here