A Dorset residential home has added a hair salon, nail bar and jacuzzi as it opened its doors again following a 'vast refurbishment'.

The Evergreens Lodge, located in Westbury, Sherborne, has also welcomed a new manager and name.

Previously known as Riverside Nursing Home, the site's new boss, Vicki Collins, has been in post since February to undergo the work to the home.

An open day was held on Saturday, June 10 to celebrate the new chapter, with new mayor of Sherborne Cllr Juliet Pentolfe officially cutting the ribbon alongside Ms Collins in front of an audience of relatives, staff and Sherborne residents. 

A hog roast was enjoyed and ice cream welcomed in the June sunshine, while entertainment including live music kept crowds dancing with acts including an Elvis tribute. 

Some key changes at the home include the introducation of a hair salon, nail bar and a jacuzzi therapy bath for residents.

Another key difference is the fact the home is no longer a nursing home and is now referred to as a residential site.

A second communal lounge has been introduced and residents have also chosen the colour of the wallpaper for the walls.

Registered manager Ms Collins has 22 years' worth of experience in elderly residential care, 10 of which are in management roles within care homes.

She said she is working with Dorset Council and the Care Quality Commission to 'turn this home around' and improve its rating with the health watchdog.

Evergreens Lodge was last inspected in December 2022 and was graded as 'requires improvement' overall. 

The new manager added she is 'putting a lot of time' into training staff to provide a high standard of dementia care, including those with challenging behaviours.

"With the introduction of new staff and the hard work of the existing staff this is progressing quickly," Ms Collins said.

"They have had to adapt quickly to many changes, some of which are happening daily. I am proud of every single member of staff involved.

"We had a great afternoon of entertainment which had the residents and staff all up and dancing and it was well attended by relatives, staff and locals."