Before unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion, the Countess toured the £59m flagship village with residents Sonja Shearman and Eileen Burn. The two residents helped to raise £11,000 for Lark Hill as part of a 12 day, 220 mile sponsored walk from the Cumbrian to Northumberland coast.

During the visit, the Countess viewed some of the 18 leisure and health facilities, visited a couples' village home and heard about residents' achievements during the Village's opening year.

The Village, which has 327 properties, has been developed by Nottingham City Council, The Department of Health, Nottingham City Primary Care Trust and The ExtraCare Charitable Trust.

Lark Hill at a Glance

The largest village of its kind in the UK, Lark Hill is now fully occupied. 465 residents live in a range of affordable mixed-tenure properties including purchase, part-purchase and rental homes.

The Village has a team of 90 ExtraCare staff.

One third of residents receive an assessed package of care which can include up to 24-hour nurse-led support.

532 Well-being sessions have been attended by residents and visitors since September 2009, supporting a proactive approach towards preventative healthcare.

Over 40 activities take place in the village each week including choir singing, tai chi, reminiscence group, walking club, painting, woodwork, well-being classes and gardening.

150 residents and community members use the Lark Hill Gym.

The Village facilities are open to local older people as part of a community Friends Club.

Village occupancy is eligible to residents over 60 (55 in exceptional circumstances) living in the City of Nottingham, or to those who can demonstrate a local connection.

To enquire about living in Lark Hill Village, or using facilities such as the gym or restaurant as part of the Village Friends Club, please phone: 0115 969 5000