Testimonials

Jean Harbron didn't think she was ready for life in a retirement development until she moved into McCarthy & Stone's Hunters Court in Chester Road, Streetly, West Midlands.

Now she is enjoying the sociable atmosphere of the residents' lounge - very different from living on her own in a four-bedroom house - and the convenience and flexibility of her brand new apartment. She has turned the second bedroom into a studio where she pursues her hobby of surfing the internet but also has a spare bed for guests.

Mrs Harbron said: "The internet is great for buying presents and keeping in touch with my six grandchildren. But I don't spend all my time on the net. I enjoy mixing with the other residents because I felt very much alone in my old house.

"I didn't think I was ready for a retirement development, but I didn't want to leave Streetly as I have lived here for 30 years. So when I saw Hunters Court being built I decided it was the one for me.

" It was the best thing I could have done. I haven't had to change my environment - I am still near my favourite shops and my doctor - but I have a better lifestyle because I don't have to worry about gardening or maintenance. It was the best thing I could have done. I haven't had to change my environment - I am still near my favourite shops and my doctor - but I have a better lifestyle because I don't have to worry about gardening or maintenance."

In addition to the central lounge, residents at Hunters Court share a lift to all floors, a laundry room and landscaped gardens. Each apartment is connected to TV camera security at the main entrance and to a 24-hour emergency call system.