Compo is coming to York to open showpiece flats for the elderly - and he looks set to smarten up his act for the day.

Bill Owen, holder of the MBE and scruffy star of the BBC's long-running comedy series Last Of The Summer Wine, will perform the opening ceremony at Glen Lodge in Heworth on Thursday.

But the council expects him to abandon Compo's wellies and woolly cap to mark the occasion.

Glen Lodge is a newly-converted development of 32 self-contained flats where elderly residents will be given intensive and round-the-clock support so they can continue living independently with peace of mind.

"This prestigious new service enables older people to retain their independence as their needs change an approach to life for which Mr Owen, through Last Of The Summer Wine, is renowned," said Councillor Bob Fletcher, chairman of City of York Council's Social Services Committee.

The council says that Glen Lodge, in Sixth Avenue, which has undergone a £944,000 refurbishment and conversion scheme, differs from traditional sheltered housing and residential care in that it meets their individual and changing needs, rather than asking them to fit into an already established pattern.

It will feature a library area, hairdressing salon and lounges on each floor, while a kitchen will offer meals to residents who choose not to cook for themselves.

Green-fingered residents will be able to use a well-stocked greenhouse.

Coun Fletcher said the development would offer the highest standards of service and support, in beautifully designed surroundings.

"Residents have the right to expect the best and we are extremely pleased that Glen Lodge offers just that."

The opening ceremony takes place at 1.15 pm on Thursday. At 2.45 pm, Bill Owen, an accomplished actor of stage and screen as well as sit-com star, will plant a tree at the front of the complex to mark the occasion.

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