A PIONEERING retirement community in York has opened its doors to the public as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.

Hartrigg Oaks at New Earswick was taking part in the national Care Home Open Day on Saturday, aimed at helping the public find out about life in local homes, who lives and works there, and the activities which are available.

The day coincided with the 20th birthday of the Hartrigg Oaks, which took a national lead in 1998 in developing the continuing care retirement community model, which has since been followed in many places elsewhere.

It consists of 152 bungalows as well as a 42-bed care home providing residential and nursing care.

It aims to enable people aged 60 plus to remain independent and live life to the full in a socially stimulating environment.

Art works created by residents, including paintings, sculptures and photographs, are on permanent display, but new works have recently been placed on display.