OVERJOYED families have finally been allowed to see their loved ones in care homes again.

Residents can now receive visits from one family member or friend after lockdown rules were relaxed by the Government.

Staff at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Stisted, say residents are delighted they can meet relatives in person again.

Hundred-year-old Joan Chapman was one of the first when she was reunited with daughter Susan.

Susan said: “It has been a whole year since I have been able to be with mum. It has been a very special day.”

Joan added: “It’s such a great feeling to be reunited with my daughter again.”

Each visitor must test negative for Covid-19 before before meeting their loved one in person, to protect the health and safety of residents and staff.

They must also wear personal protective equipment, including gloves, an apron and face mask.

The home closed its doors to all but essential visitors before the first national lockdown.

Families have still been able to visit using a Covid-secure visitor pod, which opened last year.

Bosses say staff have worked "tirelessly" to ensure residents have had regular contact with their families by phone or video calls.

Manager Aggie McDonald said: “We have been waiting for this moment for a long time and are overjoyed to be able to reunite our residents safely with their loved ones in person.

“Throughout the pandemic, our staff have gone above and beyond to support our residents to stay connected with their loved ones, which is vital for their wellbeing.

"We are so pleased to be moving in the right direction and are looking forward to opening our home up to more visitors and larger gatherings when it is safe to do so.”