RESIDENTS moved into the first of six new housing schemes for the elderly yesterday.

The extra-care housing schemes have been built across County Durham as part of an £18m overhaul of accommodation for older people.

It involved closing 17 of the 25 Durham County Council residential homes and creating new accommodation in a joint initiative with developers, MJ Gleeson and Hanover Housing Association.

The developments are in Seaham, Ouston, near Chester-le-Street, Barnard Castle, Spennymoor, Consett and Brandon, near Durham.

Yesterday, residents moved into The Orchards development at Beech Park, Brandon.

The oldest inhabitant, 97-year-old Ethel Carse, was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a key to her new flat.

Sycamore Lodge, in Briar Close, Spennymoor, is due to open on Wednesday.

Each of the schemes offers private flats with individual bathrooms and kitchens. They also have communal facilities, including hairdressers and restaurants, and provide a room for guests.

The residents have 24- hour care, with the level of support adapted to meet their needs.

Charlotte Handy, of County Durham Care, said tenants were being moved into The Orchards from residential homes and the community over a few days.