A long-standing resident of a Island care home has died.

Anne Dear became the first person to move in to The Mount in Delamark Road, Sheerness, when it opened in 1976. She died on December 17, aged 61, having lived there for 38 years.

The home’s manager, Pam Balchin , said Anne’s near-four decade occupancy became her badge of honour.

She said: “She was absolutely proud to be the first resident.

“She’d tell everyone, ‘I was the first one in the Mount’.

“The home was built for people like her.”

Anne arrived at the Mount, which cares for people with learning disabilities, from Chatham where her father ran a sweet shop.

She had Down’s syndrome and in her later years suffered from dementia.

Last month she was admitted to Medway Maritime Hospital where she died from pneumonia.

According to Mount staff, being introduced to a former Islander and global star 14 years ago was a long-time highlight for Anne.

Pam said: “She was chosen to meet and greet Michael Crawford when he opened the Crawford Centre in Sheerness. She loved him.”

Anne had no immediate family in Kent. However, her sister Janet, who lives in Australia, visited the Mount last year.

Pam said their longest-serving resident will be sorely missed.

She said: “Anne was very happy here and a very sociable lady. She will leave a big gap in everyone’s lives.”

Anne’s funeral takes place from 1pm tomorrow at Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Road, Sheerness. A service will be held from 2pm at the Garden of England Crematorium in Bobbing.