However, with the advent of steam ships, docking facilities moved mainly to the other side of the harbour resulting in the Church of England Diocese of Newcastle building a new Mission to Seamen at Wickham.

Today, the Mission to Seamen is more formally known as "Wescott" - Presbyterian Aged Care Facility and enjoys the best of both worlds.

"Wescott" is an innovative and progressive, not for profit, quality provider of aged care services. The facility consists of a 52 bed nursing home, 74 bed hostel, 20 community care packages, a day therapy centre and 8 independent living units.

• Equipped with today's technology which enables the staff to care for our ageing population in the happiest environment possible.

"Wescott" still retains some of its former worldly charm as illustrated by:

• The historic chapel with its lovely stained glass windows handcrafted over 80 years ago.

Wescott is able to offer further assistance to its residents and the community by:

• Promoting the right of elderly persons to be supported at home, by providing quality community services and encouraging interaction between its residents and Wescott and the community clients, through it's Day Therapy Centre.

• Providing high quality services and care based on sound knowledge and skills and encourages all staff to participate in internal and external education programmes.

• Endorsing safe work practices for the well being of its residents, clients and staff through its Occupational Health and Safety Programme.

"Wescott" is situated on the corner of Fullerton and Hereford Streets, Stockton, opposite the "Boatrowers Hotel".

Contact 02 4907 1300 for more information.