A CARE home in Yeovil welcomed its first visitor yesterday (March 8).

West Abbey care centre started welcoming visitors yesterday as the Government guidelines surrounding care home visits changed.

Visitors can now meet their loved ones in the same room as part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plan to ease lockdown restrictions.

Caroline Carter, general manager at the home, said the visits are "safe" and "well organised".

“This has been a much welcomed development in what have been very challenging times," she said.

"The visits are safe and well organised, the visitor takes a LFT Covid test and we ensure the result is negative before the visitor enters the home for the safety of all our residents and staff.

"Today was a lovely day to welcome in our first visitor and we will be welcoming more throughout the week.”

Craig Loader was the first visitor to step foot in the home.

“Thank you for making it possible to see my mother, Joyce, I’m looking forward to holding her hand again very soon, you should all be very proud of what you have achieved during these challenging times,” he added.

Barchester Healthcare, who run West Abbey care centre, are welcoming new residents and patients into their homes to ensure that we are there for those that need care and support.

They have a very clear admission policy and infection control protocols that must be met.

West Abbey provides nursing care, residential care, dementia and respite care.

To find out more visit www.barchester.com.