A BLAENAU Gwent-based sheltered housing scheme has marked its 25th anniversary with a special celebration for its tenants, including three who have lived there from day one.

Bill Harry Court in Tredegar, which opened its doors in June 1990, has witnessed the end of the Cold War, Nelson Mandela’s release from prison, the birth of the iPod and the creation of a National Assembly for Wales during its 25 year history.

The scheme, which is owned and operated by Linc Care, the health and social care division of Linc Cymru Housing Association, provides support and assistance to older people with day-to-day living, enabling them to live as independently as possible for as long as possible in their own home.

Bill Harry Court was named after local Tredegar councillor, Bill Harry, and it consists of 40 homes and a large communal lounge and gardens. Regular social activities, including coffee mornings and games evenings, are organised by tenants in these areas and the Tenants’ Association organises day trips.

Tenants, friends and family celebrated the scheme’s anniversary with an afternoon tea, among them Lena Weldon, Eva Robson and Pat Evans who have all lived at Bill Harry Court since it opened 25 years ago.

Mrs Weldon, 90, moved to Wales from Italy when she was five years old with her parents who ran a fish shop close to Bill Harry Court. Commenting on her 25 years living at the scheme, she said: “Tredegar has been my home for many years and I love living at Bill Harry.

“What’s particularly great is that there is always someone to talk to if you want to because we have such good communal facilities. There are also lots of different activities taking place – I particularly enjoy the bingo and have been going for the last 23 years!

“I remember the official opening of Bill Harry with Michael Foot MP and have many fond memories of living here over the last 25 years. The event that Linc put on to mark this anniversary was lovely. I have been very happy here and reminiscing with friends about years gone by was a real giggle.”

Anne Thomas, executive director Linc Care, said: “We are delighted that so many people could come and observe this special milestone with us. It was fantastic to see tenants, friends and family coming together to celebrate 25 years of being part of the Tredegar community."