THE only way is up for residents in a Greenock high flat which has been transformed into retirement housing.

Housing bosses from River Clyde Homes held an open day to show off the improvements made to Broomhill Court, which is now aimed at the over-55s.

More than 100 people flocked to view the show flats and see new kitchens and bathrooms.

Janette McGrory, 61, came to have a look after her daughter and community link worker suggested that she go along.

She was so delighted that she signed up there and then.

Janette said: "I'm over the moon. I feel quite emotional.

"I live in Highholm Street in Port Glasgow and my family stay in Greenock - I want to be nearer to my family and grandchildren.

"They're lovely flats."

Her husband John, 64, added: "It's a big improvement on what they were like before."

Other features include a new foyer, video secure door entry system, a dedicated retirement housing co-ordinator and a community room for activities.

Creative community group Rig Arts has also set up an arts flat and there will also be a dedicated community flat too.

Michelle Bryce, retirement housing co-ordinator said: "It's a community flat, so the activities are led by what the residents want to do. It's a new experience for everyone.

"We're hoping to offer bingo, a breakfast club, coffee mornings, computer classes, board games, a men's and women's group anything that residents want."

The community flat was formerly flat 16 and has been called Suite Sixteen after RCH held a competition to name it.

Helen Connor, 73, who has lived in the block for 49 years, is the longest-standing resident.

She officially opened the launch event.

She said: "This was my first home and I still love it. I brought up my three sons here.

"It's so handy for the town and I like the laundrette.

"There's been a lot of changes through the years. It couldn't be any better.

"I like the foyer and the new lights, the camera in the lift and the security door entry so you can see people coming into the building."

Isa Lamont, 82, has lived in the block for more than 30 years.

She said: "They're lovely - what a difference to what they were like before."

Ruby Bates, 59, who has lived in the court for 14 years, added: "It's been well worth the wait."

Elaine Cannon, service improvement manager for River Clyde Homes, said: "Retirement housing is proving to be a great success at Broomhill Court.

"We were overwhelmed by the number of visitors at the open day and the comments that were made about the standard of the block.

"My thanks go to all the Broomhill residents who have been patient during the regeneration of the area and to staff from across River Clyde Homes who have contributed to the successful transformation of Broomhill Court.

"They are ensuring that every home in the block is once again being loved."