THREE former Bowood Estate workers will be enjoying their retirement in the heart of Derry Hill.

Six new homes have been built at Petty Lane on land donated by Bowood owner, the Marquis of Lansdowne.

The homes have been built in a partnership between Bowood, North Wiltshire District Council and Westlea Housing Association.

Three of the affordable homes will be rented by the former Bowood staff, who previously lived on the estate, with the others being let to people on the council's housing register.

Lord Lansdowne officially opened the new development on Tuesday.

He said: "This is a situation where everyone benefits. Three former employees will be able to enjoy their retirement in the heart of the local community where they have spent many years.

"Westlea Housing Association has been able to build these two and three-bedroom homes on the land. North Wiltshire District Council has found homes for three families from its housing register, and three properties have been freed up on Bowood Estate.

"And, of course, Derry Hill benefits from local people being able to afford to stay and live in the local community, which is so important for villages in rural areas."