A THRIVING care home was praised after a visit by the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales.

Heléna Herklots and local Assembly Member Ken Skates were welcomed to The Old Vicarage in Llangollen by director Bethan Mascarenhas, who is celebrating a successful first year after taking over the home with her brother Richard in October 2018.

Bethan, who studied at Ysgol Dinas Bran in Llangollen, said: “It was great to have Heléna come and visit, it meant a lot to the residents that we were able to give back for all the work she does on their behalf.

“We celebrated our first year of running The Old Vicarage on October 10, so it was amazing to have Heléna come and celebrate alongside us.”

Mr Skates said: “There is a wonderful warm atmosphere at the home and it’s clear to see the brilliant relationships residents have with the staff.”

Bethan added: “In a national care home review the previous commissioner said the word home ‘should mean something special, a place that we hope will be filled with friendship, laughter and love’. This is true of The Old Vicarage and we hope that Heléna felt that sense of warmth.”

Mrs Herklots said: “I want to thank the residents and staff for giving us such a warm welcome to their home and for taking the time to talk to us about their lives and experiences.”