FORMER Olympic Champion, Dame Mary Peters DBE, was the guest of honour at the opening of a retirement living development in Yate.

Dame Mary, pentathlon gold medallist at the 1972 Olympic Games, attended the opening at the Coopers Court development located in Westerleigh Road to share stories about her illustrious career as one of the country’s best known track and field athletes.

After giving a speech about her experiences both as an Olympian and an ambassador for the sport, Dame Mary took the opportunity to talk individually to residents and their families.

Jacqui Meenan, regional sales and marketing director for McCarthy & Stone, who own the development, said: “Dame Mary continues to be an inspiration for the older generation and is a shining example of someone who appreciates that age is something to be celebrated and enjoyed.

“Many of the people who live at Coopers Court still fondly remember her achievements at the Olympics in Munich, so it was a real honour for them to be able to not only meet her, but welcome her into their home.

“It was a fabulous event for everyone who attended, and one I’m sure we will all treasure for a long time to come.”