A national care provider with its headquarters in Lowestoft has marked a milestone anniversary with an award ceremony for its staff.

Kingsley Healthcare used its 25th anniversary to recognise the efforts of its staff from branches across east England.

ITV Anglia news anchors David Whiteley and Becky Jago hosted the celebration at Ivy House Country Hotel in the Lowestoft suburb of Oulton Broad.

Kingsley began its journey there back in 1999 with the purchase of Lilac Lodge Care Home.

Kingsley CEO Daya Thayan, a co-founder of the service, said: "This day means so much to us.

"We are a family business and you are part of this family.

"The east, particularly Lowestoft, holds a special place in our hearts as it is where we began our journey.

"Every time we visit, we witness the outstanding work you do as our teams, always with a smile.

"It is your dedication that truly matters.

"Today we are in 36 locations, caring for over 1,500 residents with 2,200 colleagues.

“However, our vision when we set up Kingsley Healthcare was not about how many care homes we wanted to own, but the difference we make to people’s lives.

"We have steadfastly committed to our family values of kindness, compassion and empathy in all we do.”

Numerous awards were given during the event.

Zena Stotter, who has been home manager at Lilac Lodge for eight years, was announced as Care Home Manager Award for Suffolk, judges commenting that her standards are set exceptionally high and she never wavers from them.

According to co-chief operating office Debbie McGovern, the awards are "testament to the incredible talent and dedication that thrives within our group".

Individual hosts will present further regional awards in the South, North West and Midlands.

This will culminate in a grand Kingsley 25th Anniversary Awards celebration in Suffolk in September.