Moving home later in life isn’t for the faint-hearted but 90-year-old Carlo Pediani has no regrets after buying a new-build house in Ayrshire.

Glasgow-born Carlo, celebrated his 90th birthday on 1st September just one month before he and his wife of 57 years, Francesca, moved into their new three-bedroom semi-detached Persimmon home at The Pastures development in Stewarton.

Thought to be the oldest buyer on record for Persimmon Homes, Carlo, best friend to celebrity photographer, Harry Benson CBE, decided that the time was right to look for somewhere new earlier this year.

Over the years Carlo has travelled the world with his best pal, Harry, as he photographed acting elite, royalty, presidents and world changing events. His tails of meeting Grace Kelly, John Travolta and following The Beatles on their inaugural trip to the USA are a clear indicator that Carlo is no ordinary 90 year old. To celebrate his 90th year in style he rode 90km on his beloved vintage motorbike which recently featured in Vintage Motorcycle Magazine.

Carlo decided that living in their Victorian flat was becoming impractical this year, it’s steep staircase was becoming increasingly hazardous and lugging the shopping and coal for the fire up the stairs was difficult, particularly in the winter months.

“I noticed that Persimmon was building in Stewarton and popped in to find out more,” said Carlo, “there was no need to look elsewhere, the location was perfect for us, with Sainsbury’s within walking distance and Kilmarnock and Dunlop nearby.

“The development is becoming a lovely lively little community filled with families and children playing - it’s lovely to see.”

Living a full and very adventurous life Carlo was keen to find a home that didn’t tie him down. His love of motorbikes and bike mechanics meant that he wanted to continue to travel the world with Francesca and felt that a newbuild was the best option – it meant he could drop everything and go travelling without worrying about maintenance.

“I spoke to the sales advisor, Ami, and immediately felt that this was the right move for myself and Francesca. Ami’s advice and support made the entire process so easy and we are really happy that we moved.

“Making the garden maintenance free is my next project and I’m hoping that the work to replace the grass with Astro-turf slabbed patio area will get underway soon – after all the less work I have to do in the garden the more time I have to do the things I love.”

Persimmon Homes West Scotland sales and marketing director, Ingrid Gahagan, added: “We were delighted to welcome Carlo and Francesca to The Pastures development. He may be 90 but he has all the energy and enthusiasm of a man in his twenties and we hope they are both very happy in their new home.

“It’s always exciting to welcome buyers of all ages, from first time buyers to families and downsizers but Carlo is a truly exceptional customer with a real zest for life that reminds us all that age is just a number.”