WINCHESTER MP Steve Brine has paid a visit to a retirement community in New Alresford.

After helping to lay the official date brick in 2018, Mr Brine, the MP for Winchester and Chandler’s Ford, returned to Wayfarer Place, The Dean, to join residents and staff in the communal lounge for a chat over coffee, taking time to answer questions and talk to them about their motivations for moving and how they are settling into their new life.

He was given a tour of the facilities, which were designed to give the residents independence and inspire feelings of community.

Hampshire Chronicle: Steve Brine MP outside Wayfarer Place with residentsSteve Brine MP outside Wayfarer Place with residents (Image: McCarthy Stone)Mr Brine said: “I was delighted to meet the homeowners at Wayfarer Place and understand how the development is supporting local retirees in our community.

“Developments like Wayfarer Place offer an excellent solution for those looking to enjoy an independent and active lifestyle in retirement. I think it’s important that Hampshire can offer not only greater housing choice for those looking to downsize but the chance to become part of a welcoming and friendly community of like-minded individuals.”

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Nicki Beswarick, divisional marketing manager at McCarthy Stone, which runs Wayfarer Place, said: “We were thrilled to welcome Mr Brine to Wayfarer Place. At McCarthy Stone, we are committed to delivering an exceptional lifestyle that offers all the home comforts with a choice of social and leisure activities right on the doorstep - and it was great that Mr Brine was able to experience this first-hand.”

Hampshire Chronicle: Steve Brine chatting with Wayfarer Place residentsSteve Brine chatting with Wayfarer Place residents (Image: McCarthy Stone)Bridging the gap between traditional residential care and independent living for the over 70s, Wayfarer Place features 56 one and two-bedroom apartments featuring attached living spaces.

A communal lounge sits at the heart of day-to-day life, alongside an on-site bistro, a purpose-built salon, and a guest suite for overnight visitors.

For those who may require extra assistance, a dedicated Estate Management team is on-site around the clock to provide support and personal care.