HERE is the first look inside Horley's new state-of-the-art care home.
The show suite at the new Amherst House care home opened on Court Lodge Road at the weekend. And the facility was given the seal of approval by the Mayor of Horley, Councillor Richard Olliver, in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The £7million facility, which members of the public can visit, claims to offer boutique hotel design alongside "leading-edge dementia and innovative specialist care facilities".
The 60 residents will be able to take advantage of a hair and beauty spa, a nail bar, a cafe, library and wi-fi access throughout the home.
Home manager Arthur Tanare said: "We're really looking forward to welcoming everyone to the beautiful show suite.
"I think people will be quite surprised when they see what our bedrooms look like – it really isn't how people normally imagine a care home to be.
"My vision for Amherst House is that it becomes a community hub that everyone can enjoy, so do stop by and visit us, we'd love to show you around."
The team of 60 nurses, carers and support staff have all been recruited from the town and the local area – 25 are already in place, with the rest starting work throughout April.
Mr Tanare said interest in the home has already been very strong and the first residents are expected to move in during April and May.
Cllr Olliver said he was delighted to have opened the town's new facility.
He added: "I worked in many care homes during my time as a GP, but never saw one quite like this.
"The facilities here are fantastic. They will inspire the staff working here, as well as the residents who will call it their home.
"I wish everyone at Amherst House the very best of luck."
The home, on Court Lodge Road at the site of the old Court Lodge School, is run by Gracewell Healthcare.
Its name was chosen by pupils at nearby Yattendon School, who named it after 19th century Horley landowner Lord William Pitt Amherst.
A church and 18 houses will also be built on the old school site.
For more information about Amherst House, go to www.gracewell.co.uk
