A NEW home specially designed for people who are both deaf and blind is set to be officially opened in East Lancashire.

Sense, the national charity which works with deafblind people, is extending its services for people in Lancashire, and will open the house in Park Road, Accrington, next week.

Furnishing and equipping the detached property has cost more than £35,000.

Money to carry out the work came from various donations, including cash from ICI.

The property has been adapted to contain high colour contrasts, textured surfaces with modified lighting, and acoustics which maximise the use of residual hearing and vision for residents. The features also enhance mobility and independence.

The home, which can accommodate up to five people, will also include a sensory water feature in the garden which could be extended to a complete sensory garden. This includes a wishing well, pebbles, fountain, seats, and wheelchair access.

Bob Snow, regional director of Sense North, said: "The new group home in Accrington will enable deafblind adults to live in an environment that helps them to get the most out of life."

Four people have already moved into the house, including two from East Lancashire, and a fifth is set to move in soon.