The home is one of four operated by Runwood Homes under the Kathryn homes banner and is well known for its work in the community.

The home was originally built in 2002 and the new extension has added eight rooms as well as extra bathrooms and lounge areas for the residents.

A new cafe called Gracies’ Tea Room, named after the homes oldest resident, Grace Sharman, who was 105 last year, was also opened.

Regional director Sue Smith said: “We are delighted to open the extension and so pleased that Grace allowed us to name it after her.

“We are very proud of our reputation in making every home a real home.

“The cafe has been designed around a real old fashioned tea room, where residents can relax and socialise with each other, or spend time with their families.”

There was an oasis of calm on a Sunday afternoon recently when YT went along to Leatherland Lodge to speak to staff about what dignity means.

There was a lovely afternoon to co-incide with a national campaign.

The award is no surprise to Kim’s staff and residents as she has run a warm, friendly and happy care home at South Ockendon for a number of years.

There are always a host of activities at the home from music to chairaerobics to sing-alongs.

Kim’s interpersonal skills with the residents are wonderful and she has developed a very loyal staff.

Kim said: “I was so surprised to get the award but it is lovely. It is an award for my staff and a testament to my employer and how they make us all feel valued.”

Over at Leatherland Lodge in South Ockendon, young dance instructor, Craig Comerford puts the residents and staff through their paces with a touch of chairaerobics.

We dropped in on a session to see how it was going.

The care home raises money for a host of charities so it was no surprise that the staff and residents dug deep for the BBC charity.

Children in Need provides grants to projects in the UK which focus on children and young people who are disadvantaged.

Pudsey Bear was so grateful he came down to the lodge for a personal visit.

Joined by dozens of family members including her daughter, Christine and her son Albert, who had travelled from Thailand), the family were delighted to be joining in Ada’s celebrations.

Daughter, Christine said: “Mum has incredible spirit. She was born in Poplar. Her husband (my dad) died when I wa sonly three and so she had to have great resolve.

“She lived for 35 years in Walton-on-the-Naze and has worked as a helper and a carer. We are all so proud of her.”

Ada was filmed receiving her telegram from The Queen.

Staff at Leatherland Lodge, where Ada has stayed for the last two years, were also very proud.

Manager, Kim Currie said: “Ada is amazing. She has a great sense of humour even when poorly. She has been in great health and has a great independent spirit.

Speaking to YT, Ada (100) said: “It is great to have the family around me. I have got to 100 by just keeping busy and getting on with it!”