STAFF and residents at Kidderminster’s The Gables Rest Home marked International Women’s Day in style.

All female residents were given an award for being inspirational while all staff received a book marker and key ring.

Despite their limousine breaking down, some residents and staff went the rest of the way by taxi for a Champagne afternoon tea at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, near Wombourne, where awards were presented.

Mary Footman, Mary Perks, Jan Ansell, Tracey Jones and Silv Garret were joined by manager Kim Northwood.

Meanwhile, residents Joan Smith and Dee Kiteley went with staff Tina Wilson and Tracy Richards to a local pub for a meal and received an award.

All other residents were given an award and had a special lunch with a visit from the music to movement lady.

Kim said: “Each and every one is truly valued and all an inspiration in one way or another.

“It has been a pleasure celebrating all these beautiful, inspirational ladies.

“A huge thank you to Central Taxis who came and helped us get to our lunch venue and our wonderful director Lindsey Clark who picked us up and took us back home even though she was on maternity leave.

“None of this distracted from the beautiful day we have had.”

Mary Footman said: “ I will treasure this for the rest of my life. No one has ever called me inspirational. I am delighted.”