A STRICTLY Come Dancing star has officially opened a new retirement development in Crowthorne.

Debbie McGee, who lives in Wargrave, was invited to cut the ribbon on the new McCarthy and Stone retirement living development, Birch Place, in Duke's Ride.

The star joined homeowners and guests to officially open the new development, which features a stylish collection of two-bedroom apartments designed specifically for those aged 70 and over.

Ms McGee said: "It was an absolute pleasure to mark the official opening of McCarthy and Stone’s new Retirement Living Plus development in Crowthorne, and to meet with guests and staff. It was great to see first-hand what a fantastic development Birch Place is and the many benefits it will bring to retirees.”

Georgina Akers, regional sales and marketing director for McCarthy and Stone, said: “We are very proud of Birch Place and it was our pleasure to showcase this superb new development with such an enjoyable event. Everyone had a great time raising a glass to commemorate this important milestone; and the McCarthy and Stone team would like to say thank you to Debbie McGee, for performing the all-important ceremonial duties.”