It has been one year since Bake Off star Mary Berry spoke of her “joy” at a new retirement home in Oxfordshire.
The legendary cook, now aged 91, was a judge on the BBC’s Great British Bake Off between 2010 and 2016 before it left for Channel 4.
Dame Mary has lived in Henley, in the south of Oxfordshire, with her husband Paul Hunnings since 2019.
And now the Queen of Cakes has marked the official opening of Audley Shiplake Meadows, the luxury retirement village near Henley.
Dame Mary said: “It was such a joy to be part of Audley Shiplake Meadows official opening event.
“Having called this area home for the past seven years, I know the new homeowners will be very happy here.
“Whether they’re enjoying their beautiful new homes, tending to their allotments, taking a walk in the beautiful countryside, or treating themselves to a day out in Henley, they’ll find so much to love.
“I can already see how Audley Shiplake Meadows will become a wonderful part of the local community, with its beautiful bar and bistro open for everyone to enjoy. I’m looking forward to seeing the village flourish in the years to come.”
Dame Mary was joined by current and prospective property owners and Nick Sanderson, chief executive of Audley Villages, for a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Guests enjoyed a champagne reception, speeches from Dame Mary and Mr Sanderson, a tour of the new village and its grounds and the celebrations were followed by a delicious afternoon tea.
Audley Shiplake Meadows is home to 65 senior living apartments, duplex penthouses and cottages for people over 65, all with a balcony, terrace or private garden.
Bosses say the design of the village prioritised traditional characteristics and materials of South Oxfordshire to honour the village’s location.
When moving into the village, owners automatically become a member of the Audley Club, which features Tennyson’s lounge bar and bistro, a fully equipped gym and fitness suite as well as wellness services for homeowners.
Mr Sanderson said: “It was a real pleasure to host the official opening of Audley Shiplake Meadows with Dame Mary Berry, new and prospective property owners, and guests including our joint venture partners, O’Shea and Galliard.
“Shiplake Meadows is a stunning village in a beautiful setting, and I’m looking forward to seeing the community grow as we welcome more people to the village.
“Bringing more options to the retirement living market is something we’re really passionate about, providing the properties, and facilities, that enable more people to live long, independent and healthy lives.”
