AN award-winning cartoonist was in Latchford for the official opening ceremony of a state-of-the-art care village.

Tony Husband, who lives in Manchester, unveiled a mural to celebrate the diverse interests and lives of people living in Belong Warrington, on Loushers Lane.

The £9.5million village specialises in supporting patients with dementia and offers 24-hour care at the location, as well as giving help to those in their own home.

Tony, a full-time cartoonist since 1984, has won more than 15 major awards for his work, including the Pont award from the Cartoon Museum.

He also received praise for his work on his poignant book, Take Care, Son: The Story of My Dad and his Dementia which was lauded for its touching illustrated portrayal of his father's life with dementia.

Speaking of his new mural, Tony said: "I've been touched by people's responses to my account of my father's journey with dementia.

"When Belong approached me to create a mural for the opening of its new care village, I knew that I wanted to capture some of the diversity and vitality of the people living here.

"Hopefully I've done justice to thriving community life in Belong Warrington."

It has been an impressive period for the village, after practice development facilitator Michelle Jones won the Frontline Leaders award at the prestigious Great North West Care Awards.

Michelle, who was nominated for her role in coaching members of staff and overseeing their professional development, was presented with the award at a lavish ceremony which took place at Manchester's Palace Hotel.

"It's so touching to know that my hard work and commitment has been recognised," she said.

"I'm lucky to work with so many amazing people and proud to be a part of the high standard of care that they offer to Belong customers."