A GARDEN party was held last week to mark the 75th anniversary of the Tibberton Almshouses Association - and the latest stage in the modernisation of the four properties.

Residents and trustees of the charity were joined by Forest Council officials as the keys were handed over to a new resident.

Diana Thomas was given the keys by Alison Evans, a fourth generation descendent of William Philip Price of Tibberton Court, who established the almshouses in 1868.

Improvements are being made to the homes with a grant from the council for community-led housing projects.

The grant has provided 14 new windows and three new doors.

Treasurer to the trustees, Phil Bevan, said: "As houses have become available we have started our programme of bringing them up to the latest ’Decent Homes Standards’ by improving insulation, replacing ground floor surfaces and providing updated kitchens, bathrooms and re-wiring.

"We could not have done this without the co-operation and a loan from the Almhouse Association, which gave us the impetus and ability to carry out the modernisation of the property.

"We are also grateful to Forest of Dean District Council who provided a grant for the replacement of windows and doors."

The council’s Cabinet member for Housing, Cllr Claire Vaughan, said: "For anyone else leading a similar project, there is an opportunity to take advantage of our community-led housing fund, whether you are just getting your project up and running or you are an established group ready to take your project to the next stage."