A UNIQUE mini village in the gardens of a Prestwick care home, which has transformed the lives of residents, has been recognised by a national dementia award.

The wee village at Berelands House care home features a host of shops, hairdressers, and a coffee shop for residents to enjoy.

The magical garden space caught the eye of the National Dementia Care Awards for the second year running as it was selected as a finalist in the 11th edition of the award ceemony.

The awards recognise Bereland’s village in the category of Best Dementia Garden. Local businesses got involved to help create a vibrant thriving space with the main shop ‘Betty’s Shop’ being named after one elderly man’s late wife. The staff team attended the virtual awards ceremony on November 12 as finalists, with Paisley Court care home in Liverpool finally picking up the top prize.

Manager Teresa Mangonon said: “I am proud of all of our staff and the team at Berelands House.”Bosses at Priory care who run the home also heaped praise on the team for creating the village space.

Rebekah Cresswell, Chief Operating Officer at Priory Adult Care, said: “I have visited the village and spoken to residents about it. They are very involved and it is linked to the shop where they list items they want available. The activities at Berelands House have always been fun and creative. It is such a lovely care home. Teresa and the team there do an excellent job. I am so pleased they were chosen as finalists and it is very much deserved.”