STRICTLY Come Dancing’s Arlene Phillips braved traditional English weather to open a new retirement home in Tetbury.


Last Tuesday, the ex-Sunday night show judge joined retirees on a guided tour of McCarthy and Stone’s retirement living development Lewsey Court in London Road.


After chatting with guests at a question and answer session she cut a ceremonial ribbon and unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion.


The development offers 38 one and two-bedroom apartments starting at £265,000.


Some have expressed concern that the apartments will be out of locals’ price range and do not provide scope for Tetbury's first-time buyers.


Arlene, 72, recently became an ambassador for McCarthy and Stone to launch The Colour Report – a campaign to breakdown negative stereotypes of the older generation.


“I was delighted to visit Lewsey Court in Tetbury to mark its official opening,” Arlene said. “As an ambassador for the The Colour Report I know that retirees today are redefining what it means to grow old.


“We are independent, active individuals who are seeking new experiences and fulfilling lifelong ambitions, no matter what our age.


“The homeowners at Lewsey Court are no different and having met the staff and seen what a bustling community they have there, I just know they’ll enjoy every minute of their retirement.”