RIDGE House in Morchard Bishop opened its doors to Central Devon MP Mel Stride and Devon County Councillor Margaret Squires on Friday, February 25.

The pair were given a tour of the award-winning residential home, rated "Good" by the Care Quality Commission, by Area Manager Beth Cheffings.

Earlier this month restrictions on the number of people visiting their loved ones in care homes were lifted.

Mrs Cheffings said: “It was great to meet Mel and to discuss some of the challenges facing the care sector in Devon.

"The past two years have not been easy for care home residents who have struggled with not being able to see family and friends as often as they are used to. The lifting of restrictions has been very welcome.”

Mr Stride added: “Care homes here in Central Devon and across the country have faced a difficult two years and I am grateful to the staff here at Ridge House and in residential homes across my constituency who have worked so hard to keep their residents safe.”

Mr Stride and Cllr Squires are both actively supporting Proud to Care Devon - part of Devon County Council’s plan to aid recruitment and retention in the care sector.

Anyone thinking about a job in care can visit: www.proudtocaredevon.org.uk to register their details.

You will receive a call back and get free one-to-one support to find out if a job in health and care is right for you. You don’t necessarily need qualifications or previous work experience.

What’s important are your core skills and values and your attitude towards working with people who need care.

For more information about Ridge House visit: www.ridgehouseresidentialhomeltd.co.uk, telephone 01363 877335 or email: [email protected] .