A STAR of the small screen cut the ribbon at the official opening of the Vicarage Mead sheltered housing complex in Thaxted on Friday. Glen Murphy MBE, who lives in nearby High Easter, provided the elderly residents with a day to remember when he appeared

A STAR of the small screen cut the ribbon at the official opening of the Vicarage Mead sheltered housing complex in Thaxted on Friday.

Glen Murphy MBE, who lives in nearby High Easter, provided the elderly residents with a day to remember when he appeared at the extensively refurbished flats.

Work began on the £1.9million project in November 2005 and was completed 18 months later, offering tenants in the housing complex well-designed, modern accommodation.

Uttlesford District Council (UDC) undertook the project to bring the flats up to date. To minimise disruption, residents remained on site while contractor T.J. Evers Construction carried out the work.

Cllr Sue Schneider, UDC community committee chairman, said: "We're really pleased this project has reached fruition and is an asset to the district, providing first-class accommodation for elderly people.

"From being difficult to let, the accommodation is now very highly desirable."

Improvements at Vicarage Mead include new fully fitted kitchens, level access showers, separate bedrooms, acoustic air vents and double-glazed windows.

An onsite hair salon, communal lounge and modern laundries also add to the complex's contemporary feel.

Resident Joan Doggett, 94, said: "It's brighter, lighter - and all the bed-sits have gone."

Glen Murphy, probably best known for his starring role in hit series London's Burning, was a welcome guest at the complex, where he chatted and joked with tenants.

The actor, who hails from the East End and has also appeared in Doctor Who and The Bill, gained his MBE for his close involvement with charities including SupportLine, of which he is a patron.

He was so impressed with the quality of the flats and said: "They are wonderful - I'm going to put my name down now for one!