A residential nursing home in mid Norfolk has been rated as 'good' for it quality of service by the industry's independent regulator.

Bilney Hall in East Bilney, which is part of the Healthcare Homes Group, received the positive rating from an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

It comes during a special milestone year for the home, as staff and residents celebrate the building's 150th anniversary, as well as the completion of a £1m extension programme.

That extension has included the addition of ten new en-suite bedrooms, a well-equipped lounge, and some transformed landscaping in the grounds.

It is part of an effort to provide modern accommodation to people in need of residential or nursing care, including specialist dementia services, in addition to short-term respite support.

Inspectors made an unannounced visit to Bilney Hall in February and spent time speaking with staff, residents, relatives of residents, and a number of other team members.

Their assessment was based on whether the service delivered at the home was safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. It achieved 'good' ratings in all of these areas and the report noted that: 'The staff were kind, caring and compassionate and knew the people they supported well. They listened to people, quickly dealt with any concerns they raised and treated them with dignity and respect.'

Home manager, Jenny Daynes, said: 'This report comes at such a significant time for the home as we mark the important anniversary year for our wonderful building and further extend the care we can provide with the opening of our brand new wing.

'Since joining the home in November, it has been a priority for me to ensure that our processes and facilities are the best they can be. We are privileged to be situated in a stunning part of the country and we want to create a real haven for our residents, with care and facilities to be proud of. We are already enjoying showing people around the new rooms and look forward to welcoming more residents to our home.'

The new extension is now open for new residents but there is an official opening event and celebration planned for Friday May 19 where a local dignitary will officially unveil the new wing.