By Jamie Walker

Traditional home cooking and a pet dog are the key to 25 years of success at Churchley Rest Home in Hove for a quarter of a century.

With bacon pudding, fish and chips and apple crumble as regular fixtures on the menu since 1987, manager Karen Lewis credits the home's success to the cosiness of her establishment.

Mrs Lewis said: “I like the size of the home. With 16 residents we can keep the homely feel.”

She praised her staff and highlighted the importance of people staying for the long-term and said: “They make all the difference. One worker has been here 15 years.”

The manager, who trained as nurse before opening the home,  new regulations mean she spends more time with paperwork when she would rather work closely with residents

One of the great successes at the home was introducing a pet labrador.

Mrs Lewis said: “Toby has been here for two years, and they adore him.”

Anyone willing to volunteer to visit residents or assist on days out is asked to contact Mrs Lewis on 01273 725185.