The devastated 86-year-old thought she had lost her independence forever. But just over a year later she sits in her very own sun-filled flat surrounded by family and friends – and is still able to use her legs.

Mrs Thomas is one of 150 people helped back to independent living by a team of dedicated staff at The Victory Unit in Paulsgrove, Portsmouth.

The small unit, which specialises in social rehabilitation for older people, is celebrating reaching the landmark figure since it opened in 2004.

Determined Mrs Thomas, who now lives in Nutfield Place, Landport, Portsmouth, said: 'I went into the unit last year because I couldn't walk at all. I was devastated to leave my home – I had lived there for 62 years – but I couldn't manage on my own any longer.'

The great-grandmother had a series of physiotherapy sessions during her four-month stay at the unit. And when she was well enough, staff found her a flat in the extra-care housing block where she now lives.

She has carers to help her wash, dress and cook but the flat is her own to come and go as she pleases. She added: 'Obviously nothing beats being in your own home, but I am very happy where I am. My family and friends visit me and I am very lucky.'

Councillor Leo Madden, in charge of health and social care, said: 'We want to help as many people as possible to continue to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

'With the help of a team of professionals at the unit, older people who would previously have needed residential care have been able to return home and continue to live independent lives.'

>> THE Portsmouth City Council-run Victory Unit helps older people to readjust to living independently after a stay in hospital or residential care.

Staff encourage people to relearn basic living skills.

The unit's team includes a physiotherapist, occupational therapists, social workers, a speech therapist and a mental health nurse.

Available to Portsmouth residents aged over 65, the unit has eight rooms.