RESIDENTS moving into Winchester’s new retirement complex have been given a welcome pack by Winchester City Council.

The council has given residents in each apartment at Chesil Lodge a hamper full of local produce to thank them for their patience, after the completion of the complex was delayed for six months.

Items in the hamper include apple juice from Hill Farm Juice in Swanmore, Winchester breakfast tea from Char (opposite the Guildhall), honey from Beckys Beezzzs in Andover, orange and lemon drizzle cake from Potty For Puds, chocolate from Chococo in Winchester High Street, and lavender shortbread biscuits from Long Barn in Alresford.

One of the first residents to receive a hamper was Mrs Terry who was presented her hamper by Winchester City Council leader and portfolio for housing Cllr Caroline Horrill, and new tory councillor Jamie Scott.

Cllr Horrill said: “Giving each apartment a hamper full of goodies that showcase the excellent array of produce in the district is just one of the many ways we are helping residents feel welcome at Chesil Lodge.

“Moving to a new home can present a lot of challenges for residents and their families, we want to be there and help them get to grips with their new surroundings and start to enjoy the many benefits that Chesil Lodge provides.”

Housing and care services at Chesil Lodge have also begun, and the council has invested in a moving-in and settling-in provision to ensure the upheaval for new residents is minimal.

The scheme at Chesil Street, is funded jointly by Winchester City Council, Hampshire County Council, Homes England and a gift from the late Winchester-born resident Harold Harris.

Hampshire County Council invested £3 million for the commissioning of care for people living in the development, which is part of the authority’s programme to fund more than £40m over a decade on extra care schemes.