Residents, family and staff at Aspire Living residential home in Markyes Close, in Ross, were thrilled to welcome a Royal visitor last Wednesday, May 7th. Despite a few raindrops threatening the morning HRH The Countess of Wessex brought the sunshine into the home which has been turned into a specialist residential facility for older people with learning disabilities and age related conditions like Dementia. Karen Hall, chief executive of Aspire welcomed local dignitaries and representatives of organisations which have supported Aspire to the home. She explained it is called a home because that is how they want the residents to feel, that they can do what they want as they would in their own home. Lord and Lady Darnley, the High Sheriff Major Patrick Darling, Chairman of Herefordshire Council Olwyn Barnett, the Mayor of Ross, Cllr Chris Bartrum and the manageress of Markyes Close, Gail Cooper welcomed the Countess before she toured the home, meeting residents and seeing the facilities for herself. She was impressed by the sensory room and the separate room for craft activities. She also unveiled a plaque in the garden marking the opening. Despite the time constraints the Countess spent as much time as possible talking to residents, trustees and staff about their roles and everyone agreed she is a lovely lady. More photos in this week's Gazette.