AN independent living complex has appointed a new manager following the retirement of the previous incumbent.

Debbie Bolton has taken up the day-to-day running of Kemp Court in Brownhill, Blackburn, following the retirement of Averal Roscoe.

Kemp Court director Eric Astley said: “We are delighted to have found someone of Debbie’s pedigree and experience for this key role.

“Averal did a sterling job over many years and kindly stayed on to ensure a smooth handover.”

Ms Bolton, who has worked for many years in community and social care, said she is determined to build on facility's fine reputation.

She said: “Kemp Court has always promoted independent living with added support and I’m keen to maintain that philosophy and friendly environment.

"I like to think I’m very approachable and I hope my experience and advice proves beneficial to all the residents here.”

A cooking enthusiast, Ms Bolton has worked with a Women’s Refuge and, most recently, Housing 21 - primarily finding accommodation with extra support for older people.

Earlier in her career, she worked at Thwaites Brewery for 26 years, fulfilling a wide range of positions, from loans controller to brewery guide.