A TINY hamlet just outside Droitwich is welcoming new inhabitants into its community thanks to the work of a housing association.

Spa Housing Association has built three modified homes for needy people in Himbleton.

The development in Crowle Road, a three-bedroomed and two-bedroomed house plus a two-bedroomed bungalow, was specifically built to provide affordable homes for local people.

Joyce Shepherd, who suffers from arthritis, is one of the new residents.

"I was in a three-bedroomed house which was far too large for me and I was often finding climbing the stairs rather tiring," she said.

"My arthritis can be very painful and the special fixtures in the bungalow will make life so much easier for me. It's wonderful."

Guy Weston, chief executive of Spa Housing, said there were limited opportunities to build new homes in rural area which are available at affordable rents for local people.

"It's a great development providing first-class housing and it is an excellent example of how developed areas can be better utilised," he said.