Oliver on Saturday opened the new Radley Care Home in Borehamwood.

The home has recently undergone a thorough refurbishment and Mr Dowden was joined at the ceremony by a number of residents, new staff and local councillors.

Speaking later, Oliver said: ‘This was a lovely event and I was very happy to be invited to open this home. I particularly enjoyed travelling in the wonderful vintage car that was there for the day. If only I could travel in that style all the time!

‘It was good to chat with many of the residents. Most are Borehamwood born and bred so it’s great that they’re able to stay in the same place they’ve grown up in when they need care.

‘It’s so important we treat people with care and dignity in old age and I hope that this care home will be able to do just that.’