We have pulled out all the stops to ensure that the current coronavirus pandemic did not scupper moving in day for families in Llantilio Pertholey.

Persimmon Homes East Wales has worked hard to ensure recent purchasers at Willow Court, off Hereford Road, have been able to move in as planned – despite the lockdown and social distancing. One of those is Robert Catley and his family, who moved into their four-bedroom detached home at the beginning of April.

“We were a bit concerned about what was going to happen when we heard about the lockdown,” admitted Robert, a 40-year-old paint technician. We wondered whether our house would be finished and it was just added stress. However, Persimmon soon relaxed and reassured us. We couldn’t have had better advice. We’re very happy. As soon as the social distancing measures are lifted and life returns to normal we look forward to making the house our dream home.”

Persimmon’s sales offices in Wales are currently closed, but sales advisers are on hand via telephone and email to help househunters find their dream property. In fact, more than 1,000 Persimmon houses have been reserved across the UK since the lockdown began, including more than 130 in Wales. Victoria Williams, sales director, said: “The lockdown has obviously made things more difficult, but our staff have worked tremendously hard to ensure that those who had already purchased could move in as planned, and those who want to reserve can still do so. We are available to help in any way we can.”

Robert, his wife Kate and their 12-year-old son Liam have moved about three miles from Pandy. The family had toyed with the idea of an extension but then decided moving to Willow Court would offer better value for money. “We stumbled upon the sales office shortly before Christmas almost by accident,” said Robert. We loved the area and were able to use Help to Buy – Wales to secure our chosen property. It’s all just come together.”