A LIFELONG Iffley Village resident cut the ribbon to officially open a £4m housing development.

Les White, 80, is one of 16 people who have moved into Lucas and Remy Place, a 27-flat development for older people.

It replaces a 1970s block – which shared the same name – that had become outdated.

And the development has an added benefit for Mr White – he can keep a close eye on 90 sheep he keeps in a nearby field, which needs to be continuously grazed to prevent it being developed.

He said: “From my childhood I have lived in Iffley village, so it’s nice to be able to stay in the village.

“I have kept sheep in the field close to Lucas and Remy for over 40 years. The village is my family, so it’s great to be here.”

The flats were built by Oxford Citizens Housing Association.

The name Lucas and Remy Place was retained because of its links with the housing association and Iffley.

Lucas recalls Professor Keith Lucas, who had provided early support to the housing association, while Remy comes from the Norman founders of Iffley Church.

OCHA’s resident liaison officer Penny Mobbs said: “Les is a great resident, a real character. He’s always there with a smile and a joke whenever I see him.

“I hope he and all the residents will be really happy in their new homes.”

Work on the development started in 2008. It was designed by PRP Architects.

It cost £4m, with £1.2m coming from the Government’s Homes and Communities Agency.

Frances Hill, who has lived at Lucas and Remy Place since 1982, also took part in the opening ceremony.

She said: “I'm delighted with the building. It’s really beautiful.”

“Having moved away, I didn't think I would come back, but I have and it feels like coming home.”

Friend and fellow resident Marie Charlesworth added: “Our niece lives in the village and it’s so nice to be close to family.

“As a pastor I’ve spent many years visiting people and in all my years I have never seen anywhere as nice as this.”