When the upkeep of 89-year-old Barbara Elliott’s home became too much for her, she was unsure what to do.

She spotted an advertisement for a retirement living development in Banbury and decided to take a look.

Mrs Elliott, who had been in her home for 67 years, said: “I saw Merisham Court advertised and went to view it.

“I loved it because it was closer to my daughter, easier to maintain and offered the company that I was looking for.”

She chose a two-bedroom apartment in the McCarthy & Stone development which came with curtains, carpets and light fittings.

Mrs Elliott added: “The residents’ lounge is great because there are always people in there that you can have a chat with.

“We have coffee mornings, birthdays and functions to attend and it’s great for keeping active. Everyone here is really friendly and since the move I have never looked back.”

The pensioner took advantage of the company’s free removals service which includes packing. Merisham Court is a development of 30 one and two-bedroom retirement apartments on School Lane.

Features include 24-hour emergency call points, electrical sockets at a raised height to reduce bending, illuminated light switches, a camera entry system, easy-grip lever taps in the bathroom and kitchen and energy-efficient heating.

There are communal gardens, a residents’ lounge and a guest suite for visitors.

Prices for a one-bedroom apartment at Merisham Court start from £154,950. For more information call 01295 273259 or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk The show complex is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am to 5pm.