New expansion at Pilcher’s Field opened by MP in double anniversary celebration

Five new apartments at Pilcher’s Field in Yelverton, Devon, run by the Abbeyfield Buckland Monachorum Society (ABMS), were officially opened by Rebecca Smith MP on 26 June, with West Devon Borough Council leader Mandy Ewings also attending.

The opening marked the completion of a seven-year project aimed at helping to meet the local need for affordable housing for older people.

The development expands the services available at Pilcher’s Field, adding five self-contained apartments with extra parking spaces and communal areas. The project was made possible with the support of a significant grant from Homes England.

Abbeyfield Living Society’s (ALS) Head of Growth & Development, Abdul A. Ravat, also present at the event, was key to securing these funds. He said, “We worked proactively to secure grant funding from Homes England, through ALS’ status as an Investment Partner, and provided ongoing expert advice on how to maximise this opportunity for growth and achieve the best outcomes for the local population during the construction phase.”

The opening was particularly fitting in this milestone year. As well as marking 70 years since Abbeyfield was founded, 2026 is also the 50th anniversary of ABMS, which was established in 1976 by a group of local volunteers led by the vicar of St Andrew’s Church, Rev. Peter Stephens.

Following the success of the original home in Crapstone, local resident Rosemary Pilcher generously donated land for a new purpose-built development. Pilcher’s Field went on to open in the 1990s.

The site was significantly redeveloped between 2012 and 2015 to better meet the needs of residents and staff, paving the way for further expansion plans in 2019. Sustainability has also been a key part of the latest development, with the new energy-efficient extension achieving an EPC rating of A.

Resident June Warren said, “Every aspect just makes sense. What’s not to like!
“I absolutely love it here, and like that a little added support is there when needed. I have met a wonderful group of people that I can do lots of things with and the staff are fantastic.”