RESIDENTS of a sheltered housing scheme marked 30 years since it opened with an afternoon of celebration.

Nancy Smith Close in Colchester was first opened in 1986 and current householders were joined by mayor Julie Young for festivities in the gardens of historic Plum Hall, which was once the garrison headquarters.

The choir at St John's Primary School gave a special performance, followed by ladies barber shop quartet Quizzical and a delicious strawberry tea was served up.

Colchester Borough Homes older persons service manager Yvonne Day hailed the event as a great success.

She said: "The afternoon of celebrations went extremely well.

"The residents were thrilled to have Colchester’s mayor in attendance and thoroughly enjoyed the musical entertainment from the children’s choir from St John’s Green Primary and the group Quizzical.

"The children were an absolute credit to their parents and the school and the afternoon far exceeded our expectations.

"I would like to thank everyone who contributed.”