Esther hails our winners

TV presenter Esther Rantzen – who founded the Wesham-based helpline for older people, The Silver Line – presented accolades to providers in Blackpool, St Annes, Preesall, Cleveleys and Freckleton.

The care industry awards, organised by the Lancashire Workforce Development Partnership, were handed to managers and their staff for work in dealing with dementia patients during the Celebrating Good Care Conference, held in Preston.

The Willows, on Midgeland Road, Marton, was awarded for helping patients through using iPads, music, sensory rooms, and for taking residents to their former workplaces.

Paul Swithenbank, from Olivia Josephine Care Ltd which owns The Willows, said: “We are delighted to achieve this very special award. It demonstrates just how far the home has come.”

Esther, 73, said: “It’s very important to celebrate best practice, because that way you get the best staff attracted to this crucial work.”