A FIRM which enables elderly people to receive care in their own home has grown almost five-fold in its first year.

Devon C Air, which is based in Preston, Paignton, was set up a year ago by Alessandra Ruocco (left) and Colin Manning, both former carers.

Since starting with a team of five, the firm now employs a team of 24, including seven full-time carers.

Alessandra said the growth of the firm reflected the changing nature of the care industry.

"It is a growing market," she said.

"With the way the care industry is going, there is a real push to keep people in their own homes rather than putting them in care homes."

The firm has contracts with Devon County Council and care for elderly people who have been discharged from hospital.

Alessandra said they were aiming to open a second office in Dawlish and were keen on training up new staff.

"We're still taking on all the time," she added.

"By law we have to give people a chance even if they haven't worked in the care industry before, so we carry out extensive training programmes.

"We would love to get an Investor in People award."