EVEN nightmare weather could not stop a dream coming true for nine Blackpool disabled people as their brand new bungalows were officially opened.

Despite heavy downpours the group cut the ribbon themselves at the recent opening of their eight new bungalows in Crichton Place, Blackpool.

Crichton House bungalows, built by Wyre Housing Association, took their name from Crichton House, a residence for the disabled which once occupied the site and in which the bungalows' residents all lived.

During the opening ceremony, the seven single people and one couple cut a ribbon to symbolise the leap from institutional to independent living.

Dignitaries including Blackpool Councillor Sue Wright and Anthony Fox OBE, chairman of Wyre Housing Association, were also on hand to declare the bungalows officially open.

Mr Fox said: "We were happy to work closely with our new tenants and Blackpool Social Services to create a scheme which perfectly meets their individual needs and we hope that this successful partnership will continue to flourish."

Christine Prestwood, in-house resource manager for Blackpool Social Services, described the initiatives as a "fantastic scheme".

She added: "This is a major move forward for the residents who while gaining greater freedom will still have the staff support they need."

New bungalow residents Alan and Dorothy Lobb said: "We are very happy. It's lovely having our own home and the staff have been brilliant."

Fellow resident Ian Smith added: "I'm enjoying living on my own in my bungalow. I like my bungalow very much."