A reunion as well as a celebration marked the 40th anniversary of a St Albans care home coming under the ownership of William Hughes.

He set up B&M Care Homes four decades ago and Clare Lodge in Battlefield Road was the first one the company took over.

Mr Hughes was not just at the party to celebrate the anniversary but current manager Karen Langley presented him with a framed graphic with the names of the 10 original residents who lived there when B&M took it over and the names and ages of most of the current residents who number 24.

Seven previous managers returned for the celebration party where entertainment was provided by a singer and a buffet was laid on for residents and guests.

Karen said the celebration had lasted throughout the afternoon and added: “It was a really good day.”