IT is the start of a new chapter for a care home after it opened a new residential unit.

The Halliwell Unit of Farnworth Care Home now comprises 16 bedrooms, a lounge, a boutique-style dining room and a widescreen TV.

The unit took four weeks to build at a cost of £1,500 and already has 14 new residents.

In addition, 10 new members of staff have been assigned to work at the unit.

The Halliwell Unit, which is primarily for independent residents, is the fourth unit now open at the home.

Lisa Astley, manager of the home, said: “It’s very exciting to open the new unit. The residents love it. They can’t believe how nice it looks.

“We will have new senior carers, unit leaders and gen-eral care assistants working here. I’m really looking forward to it.

“Everybody at the home has worked together to get the unit opened. It’s been a real team effort.”

Adam Billington, who was previously senior carer in one of the home’s other units, has been appointed as leader of the new unit.

He said: “It’s a big ach-ievement.

“This unit is a home from home and the feedback has been really positive.

“I think it will be a good advertisement for the home and allow us to help more people in the area.”

One of the new unit’s residents is 98-year-old John O’Reilly.

He said: “I think it looks very good.

“I’ve only been here a matter of days but I already feel at home.

“Everyone has made me feel welcome and there’s a nice environment here.”