A PIONEERING orthopaedic unit for older people has opened its doors in Southampton.

Brownhill House in Lower Brownhill Road, Maybush, is the first facility of its kind in England, providing intensive rehabilitation in a homely setting.

Designed for people aged 65 and over, the home will be for patients needing 24-hour care for a period of four to six weeks.

The 16-bed unit is a joint project between Southampton City Council, Southampton City Primary Care Trust and other agencies including the Outer Shirley Regeneration project. It will provide an extension to the existing services operating from the premises, including six additional rehabilitation beds and a community information point. Carol Gareze, director of service delivery for Southampton City Primary Care Trust, said: "This project will provide invaluable care and support to many patients.

"It will also free-up hospital beds and make sure patients are cared for until they are ready to go home."