An Oxfordshire housing association has won two national awards for its £3.6m redevelopment of a derelict Victorian primary school in Watlington.

Soha housing converted the former school, in Gorwell, into 34 rental homes for older people.

The scheme saw Soha named by the National Home Improvement Council as "the housing association which has done the most to encourage the improvement of homes".

Its second accolade was the NHIC's certificate of merit for outstanding achievement.

The housing development, in the town's conservation area, kept many original features of the buildings.

It was officially opened last autumn by the Princess Royal, who praised the range of facilities under one roof.

In partnership with South Oxfordshire District Council, which gave a grant of £2.6m, and Watlington Parish Council and Age Concern, Soha housing provided new premises for the parish council, Citizens Advice Bureau and voluntary organisations. The school's former playing field was transformed into a public garden by the parish council.

Dorothy Brown, the district council's cabinet member for housing, said: "This is an excellent example of communities and local organisations working together to provide much-needed housing. The council was pleased to be able to make a contribution."

Andrew Main, Soha's director of property and development, said the award reflected the important contribution made by local people.

He said: "They have worked closely with us through the development and have helped us fulfil the needs of the local community."