“This sort of facility is so important, and I know that from my own experience,” said Mr Arnold. “I really believe St Fillans can become one of the best centres around… As we all get older and live longer, the need for this sort of facility increases more and more…I am absolutely sure that the needs of many Colchesterfamilies and people will be met here.”

Sandie Oxborrow, St Fillans commissioning manager, added: “I’m very proud to see all this happen but equally I am proud of the staff who have made this happen.

“They have a great understanding of what we are trying to achieve here and things are really looking good.” Paul Smith, borough councillor forSt John’s, said the town will also benefit from the home, with 11 of the 12 positions already filled by people fromColchester.

In all there will be 70 staff. Six residents are booked to move into the home but while it is now officially open, they cannot move in until a final Care Quality Commission report is published, which is expected in the new few days.

The Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Christopher Arnold officially opened the new St Fillans Care Home on Thursday 24 May 2012.

St Fillans Care Home

This luxurous new Guildmore Care Home, run by Excelcare provides care for 71 elderly people and jobs for around 70 local people, including support staff and nurses, activities co-ordinators, kitchen and laundry staff. Each of the rooms at St Fillans is designed with an en-suite bathroom. The residents can also enjoy a hairdressing salon, library, cinema room and a pleasant outdoor garden.