IT'S ready, steady launch for a new retirement complex which will welcome an Olympic sporting legend to mark the opening.

Dame Mary Peters has been invited to officially open Bowes Lyon Court, McCarthy and Stone’s new retirement development in Poundbury.

The development, taken from the Queen Mother's maiden name, has the blessing of Prince Charles.

Former British athlete Dame Mary won gold in the women's pentathlon at the 1972 Olympic in Munich.

She will be bringing along her gold medal to the opening, where she will give a speech and cut a ribbon before talking with residents and guests about her experiences as an Olympian and sporting ambassador.

The event, to the which the public are invited, will be held on Tuesday, June 20th June between 2pm and 4pm at the development in Queen Mother Square.

Guests will also have the chance to meet the friendly staff at the development, take a tour around the show apartments, and enjoy afternoon tea with the homeowners.

Dame Mary said: “I am delighted to be invited to the opening of this tremendous new development in Poundbury, Bowes Lyon Court.

"I have had the pleasure of visiting a number of McCarthy and Stone developments in the past, and each time it is lovely to hear how the homeowners are enjoying their new surroundings and about the friendly communities that form so naturally there. It will be a wonderful event, and I would encourage local retirees and their families to come down on June 20 and join us for a special tour and a chat.”

Now more than over 60 per cent sold, Bowes Lyon Court consists of 62 one and two bedroom apartments aimed at the over-70s.

The event will provide the opportunity for anyone interested in finding out more about life at Bowes Lyon Court to talk to the sales team.

Kim Caldwell, Regional Sales and Marketing Director at McCarthy and Stone Southern, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Dame Mary Peters to officially open Bowes Lyon Court and formally introduce the development to locals in the area.

"Dame Mary will take part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony along with some of our first homeowners there, and we will all be raising a glass to celebrate the opening.”