LORD Digby Jones praised the work done by local at-home care company as he joined staff to celebrate its first year in business.

The business guru joined Annie Dixon-Dunn, owner of the Redditch and Bromsgrove Home Instead Senior Care office, clients and their families.

Representatives from many local community groups and businesses also attended including Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK and Lifeline.

Lord Jones, whose mother is cared for by Home Instead, said: "I am delighted to join Home Instead at their First Year Anniversary Celebrations.

"Caring for those older members of our communities in their own homes, giving them support, confidence and dignity as they meet the challenges old age brings, is not only important but will become increasingly so as our society grows older by the year."

Having reached the milestone of a year in business Mrs Dixon-Dunn and her team held an open air party.

Afternoon tea and Pimms were served and guests were entertained by The Oldertones, a music group formed by residents of Terry Spring Court in Redditch.

Commenting on the event, she said: “It’s been an exciting first year. Setting up a new business is never easy but we’ve had lots of support from friends, family and the local community.

“The work we do, which assures the safety of so many older people, is hugely rewarding for me and the team at the office and, of course, our amazing caregivers .

She added: “A big thanks goes to Lord Jones for taking time out from his extremely busy schedule to show his support for the work we do.”