A care provider for the South of England has been award a coveted business award supported by blue-chip sponsors.

Colten Care runs 20 quality care homes with more than 1,000 residents and won the Company of the Year award at the 2018 Solent Business Awards.

Judges said the award was designed for strategic thinking, an outstanding financial track record, a dedication to excellence and a dynamic approach to quality and innovation.

Mark Aitchinson, chief executive of Colten Care, said: “This award is further proof that despite all the negative national press about care homes there are extremely good care home groups out there, of which Colten Care is at the vanguard.”

The company has invested in professional nursing, dementia care, employee engagement, residents’ companionship, the dining experience, community links and the physical quality of its homes and gardens.

The approach has received top ratings from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

“Our residents are at the very heart of our business and we make sure they receive the best care and life experiences possible.

“Reviews from them and their families and our regulators show we are the best care home group of our size not only in the Solent, but across the UK.”

The event was hosted by BBC South Today presenter Sally Taylor while the guest speaker was ITV’s Alastair Stewart.