A NEW state-of-the-art retirement home at Nautilus International’s Mariners' Park in Wallasey welcomed its first residents following a royal unveilling.

The £2.7m 'Centenary Wing' was formally opened by HRH The Earl of Wessex Prince Edward today (Friday) who is also the president of Seafarers UK, a charity that has been helping people in the maritime community for 100 years by providing vital support to seafarers in need and their families.

A further 22 apartments have been added to the retirement home which will now offer accommodation to a maximum of 44 residents.

The apartments have been designed to meet the needs and requirements of retired mariners and include a wet room and call alarm system.

Communal facilities have also been extended in the Hub including the creation of a new activities room.

Nautilus general secretary Mark Dickinson said: "We are delighted that the new Seafarers UK Centenary Wing is now open and ready for use.

"Nautilus has been protecting the interests of seafarers for 160 years, and supporting the increasing numbers of retired mariners and their dependents – in particular those over 75 and over 85 years – by providing additional purpose built accommodation, is a key priority for us.

"These apartments allow 21st century care for our residents and it’s a testament to the likes of Seafarers UK and our architects Pozzoni that such a fresh and vibrant building will become home to so many people." 

Nautilus International is the trade union and professional organisation for maritime professionals at sea and ashore.

All retired seafarers and their dependants are eligible to make an application for support from the charity and access many of its services.