A vast care home complex has formally opened in a “grand extravaganza” in St John’s Wood with its elderly residents and VIPs from the community getting a red carpet welcome with a live performances.

Staff and residents at the new Hampstead Court celebrated with entertainment from a fire-eater, stilt-walker, juggler and magician.

Camden’s deputy mayor Samata Khatoon cut the ribbon to officially open Hampstead Court on October 5.

“It is important to recognise the service it provides,” she said. “Hampstead Court is supporting a diverse range of communities in our borough.”

The care home in Boundary Road, St John’s Wood, is run by Avery Healthcare. Its chief executive Lorna Rose spoke of Hampstead Court being “at the heart of the community”.

It offers residential, dementia and respite care as part of the Avery group that runs 90 care homes up and down the country and four “independent living” retirement communities.

The home regularly has children from nearby primary schools who drop in for inter-generation activities, while community groups arrange events for the elderly residents, including the north-west London's Jewish community which has built a strong link with Hampstead Court.

Among guests at the opening were members of the Henna Asian Women’s group who organise weekly activities. The group was formed in 1982 by women from India, Pakistan and East Africa to bring people together from all backgrounds.

The home’s manager Daniel Bridges encourages relatives to take an active part in the daily life of Hampstead Court.

The complex has 82 bedrooms with ensuite shower rooms. Its décor and furnishings combine contemporary building design for amenities such as a cinema room, library, lounges and a private dining room that can be hired for special occasions.

Avery was among the top 20-rated care home groups in the UK in March, for the seventh year running. It also received recognition at the Care Home awards in June for “best nutrition, food and dining”.