Many retirement homes won't allow people to bring their pets with them.

But Hanover Walk, Storrington, is a glowing exception.

Now the sheltered

housing project, which recognises the benefits pets can make to residents' lives, has reached the finals of a national competition.

Estate manager Valerie Harber said: "Having pets around makes such a difference to residents' lives. They lift depression, are an antidote to loneliness and in many cases give residents a reason for living.

"I was trying to find a way of really motivating my

residents and I hit on the idea of pets.

"The results were quite dramatic. It seemed to

revolutionise their lives. A lot of my residents live for their pets."

Rita Phillips, who is in her late seventies and has lived at Hanover Walk for two years, has two chihuahua dogs.

She said: "A lot of people have been brought up with animals for their whole lives and it's very sad when they have to leave them when they get older.

"It makes a big difference to have animals around. I go out visiting the other

residents with my dogs and it brightens up their day."

Resident Barbara Harris, who is in her eighties, suffered from depression until she took in budgerigar Billy from a pet rescue centre in Worthing.

Hanover Walk also has a chinchilla, rabbits and cockatiels for residents to visit.

The home has reached the finals of the Pet Friendly Care Home of the Year

contest and a winner is expected to be announced at the end of January.

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