A “TRY before you buy” offer to help older people decide whether to downsize is being launched in Bridlington.

Potential buyers at McCarthy & Stone’s Burlington Court development can now stay in its specially designated apartment for up to two nights before making up their minds.

The scheme is to help people get to know the area, work out distances to local shops, meet the house manager and other residents and to get a taste of the lifestyle.

Corin Bland, marketing manager for McCarthy & Stone’s Northern region, said: “Living in a McCarthy & Stone retirement property offers many unique benefits that can only be appreciated by experiencing the lifestyle firsthand.

“Try Before You Buy provides an easy-to-use and friendly service that enables people to see for themselves without any obligation. I would encourage anyone who is interested in retirement property to give it a try.”

Burlington Court is designed for people over 60 who want a manageable and secure home without sacrificing their independence.

Each apartment is private, self-contained and connected to a 24-hour Careline system with TV camera security covering the main entrance.

Shared facilities include a residents’ lounge, a laundry room, a landscaped garden, a guest suite and a lift to all floors. A house manager keeps an eye on the day-to-day running of the development.

Frances Dixon, 73, tried the scheme before moving to a McCarthy & Stone development in the south.

She said: “I dithered for a long time. My husband and I had been in our family home in Gloucestershire for 37 years. After he died recently, I noticed that McCarthy & Stone were building a development in town and I did go and have a look at that and another McCarthy & Stone development in Cheltenham but my first thought was that I didn’t think it was for me. I just didn’t feel ready.

“The Try Before you Buy scheme was perfect – I would know one way or the other if it was for me. I came in June last year and was given a lot of time and attention, although I never felt rushed.

“The house manager and all the staff were very helpful and obliging, I was able to go in and out of the available flats at various times of the day to get a feel for them. It helped me to decide that yes, I could live here. For me, it was a marvellous opportunity and I don’t think I would have taken it any further without this scheme.” • Apartments are available at Burlington Court, Gordon Road, Bridlington, from £129,950. For more information, phone 01262 608498.