Darling drops in at day centre

CHANCELLOR Alistair Darling met residents whose lives had come full circle when he visited the day care wing of North Merchiston Care Home.

Bill Hoatson, 81, and Sheila Allan, 78, were both pupils at the North Merchiston Primary School, which used to sit on the same site. Now the pair are enjoying a range of activities at the day care centre including day trips and lunches.

The day care service provides a comfortable setting for up to 18 people a day to receive support from Edinburgh City Council care staff.

Mr Darling, Labour MP for Edinburgh South West, said: "The care home and day care facility are both excellent examples of earlier decisions to invest in Edinburgh's services for older people."

"It was very evident from my visit, that the day care staff provide an excellent range of support for the elderly people using the centre and I really commend their dedication and hard work."