A GROUP of assisted living properties in Evesham have been sold as part of a multi-million pound deal.

Eight Evesham-based properties have been sold to Blackstone Capital Partners (BCP) Supported Housing, in a deal supported by Band Hatton Button solicitors.

Other properties included in the £8 million deal include five in central Gloucester, along with properties in Pershore and Tewkesbury.

The sale marks the end of a successful journey in the care sector for Paul Wilcox and John Irwin from Irwin & Wilcox Support Services, after the pair originally set-up their own care providing business in Worcester in 2007, known then as Inclusion Care, and acquired the properties to accommodate vulnerable adults and aid the business’ growth.

In 2011 when the business was turning over £14 million from care homes ranging from Dorset to Durham, the duo sold the business to Sovereign Capital but retained ownership of the properties until now.

Mr Wilcox, who is now semi-retired, said: “This deal concludes a thoroughly rewarding decade of hard work for myself and John.

“Both myself and John will now be taking our time on what business ventures to pursue next.”

Dina Parmar, partner in the commercial property department at Band Hatton Button, helped Paul and John to close the sale of the properties.

“Assisted living accommodation is highly sought after, and despite Paul and John stepping away from the management of these properties, it’s really encouraging to know that the properties will continue to accommodate and make a positive difference to individuals that need it the most,” she said.

“I’ve assisted Paul and John with their property affairs throughout their journey of growth, and wish them all the best for the future.”