RED HANDED: Health Minister Mike O'Brien has hailed an innovative health care and retirement village for its provision of extra care housing and a state-of-the-art primary care centre.

Mill Rise, a £17 million project, in Newcastle, is one of the first schemes in the country to integrate housing and purpose built healthcare facilities.

Seventy-eight residents have already moved into the village, developed by a partnership of eight organisations including Aspire Housing, NHS North Staffordshire and Prima 200.

Mr O'Brien said: "I'm delighted to see the transformation. Mill Rise provides excellent facilities."

The village combines 60 apartments with a primary care centre, pharmacy, restaurant, café and hair salon.

It provides healthcare to more than 7,000 people in Knutton and Cross Heath.

Pupils from Knutton St Mary's School and Newcastle MP Paul Farrelly attended yesterday's official launch.

Pictured with Mr O'Brien are pupils Callum Norman, aged six, and Megan-Rose Wright, aged seven.

Picture: Steve Bould