Jane Winstone Retirement Village opening tomorrow

September 14, 2006

Official opening of the Jane Winstone Retirement Village tomorrow

The Jane Winstone Retirement Village in Wanganui will officially open tomorrow evening.

Located on the famous old Sacred Heart College site on St Johns Hill, the village is one of the most significant developments in the city in recent times.

The village is named after Jane Winstone, perpetuating the memory of one of New Zealand’s greatest aviators.

``It’s appropriate that we officially open the Jane Winstone village on the anniversary of the Battle of Britain celebrations in the UK,’’ Ryman development manager Ray Versey said today.

Jane Winstone was the youngest New Zealand woman pilot at the time and later died, at 31, when the engine of her Spitfire failed, and she was tragically killed during the second world war.

The opening celebrations will be highlighted by a special performance from Dame Malvina Major. Wanganui deputy mayor Dot McKinnon will officially open the village in front of invited guests, residents and village staff.

``We are thrilled with the response we have received to our development. The village is a real asset to the community, and is something the people of Wanganui can be very proud of,’’ Versey said.

An historic Gothic style chapel built in 1918 on the site is being retained and protected. The chapel holds special significance for many people and will remain available for the Wanganui community.

The Jane Winstone village includes independent townhouses, serviced apartments, a rest home, 24-hour nursing facilities and will provide homes for up to 200 elderly people.

The village features an indoor heated swimming pool, internet cafe, all weather bowling green, spa pool, gym, bar and lounge, pool table, beauty salon and library.

ENDS

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