THE UK's leading developer and manager of retirement communities, McCarthy and Stone, has launched a search for a local charity to support in Hereford and the surrounding areas, as its new William Grange Retirement Living development on Friars Street begins to take shape.

Named in recognition of local legend, William John Pullinger, William Grange will eventually feature 54 luxury one and two bedroom apartments designed exclusively for the over 60s.

With construction well underway, McCarthy and Stone is looking to pledge its support to a neighbourhood project, charity or one-off event within the Hereford community.

Local groups and charities are urged to get in touch as soon as possible by emailing requests to mccarthyandstone@mccann.com by Monday, July 22. Please mark your emails 'Hereford Community Appeal' in the subject header.

Clare Bright, regional sales and marketing director for McCarthy and Stone West Midlands, said "Our fundamental aim when creating a development is to support and integrate McCarthy and Stone and our future homeowners into the local community.

"Our developments are created with community in mind, and supporting local charities or neighbourhood projects allows us to create a positive legacy."

William Grange will provide the very best in modern, independent living within a safe and secure environment. The development will feature a homeowners' lounge, perfect for socialising with new neighbours; stunning landscaped gardens maintained by McCarthy and Stone; and a guest suite for when family and friends come to stay.

A house manager will take care of the smooth day-to-day running of the development; while a security entrance system and 24-hour emergency call points provide added peace-of-mind for homeowners.

William Grange is located just a 10 minute walk from the city centre, meaning homeowners will be able to benefit from the extensive range of local shops, restaurants and essential amenities, as well as the areas of natural beauty in Hereford.

More than nine out of ten customers would recommend McCarthy and Stone to a friend, ensuring it has received the full Five Star award for customer satisfaction from the Home Builders Federation for 14 years' running. McCarthy and Stone is the only UK housebuilder of any size or type to achieve this accolade for 14 years, which is every year the awards have been run.

For further information on William Grange, Friars Street, Hereford, visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk/ or call 0800 2014741.