A NEW £2.4m care home for elderly people with memory problems has been officially opened.

Appleton Lodge, in Spennymoor, was opened by Durham County councillor Neil Foster, who unveiled a plaque in the garden.

The complex, created by the county council and affordable homes provider The Home Group, has 21 flats and a restaurant.

Lynne Redfern, project manager for Home Older Persons Services, said: "This marks the culmination of a great team effort to bring much-needed specialist services to the area.

"The success of the scheme and the pleasure it has brought to the people who live here is the ultimate reward for all those professionals who shared the vision that has helped create these lovely homes."