John Middleton officially opens Montpellier Manor

John Middleton, actor and former Emmerdale star, spent the day talking to staff, residents and invited guests of Montpellier Manor as the local community marked the official opening of its new care home.

The home, which is providing residential and dementia care to people in Stainton and the surrounding area, is the ninetieth MHA home across England, Scotland and Wales. The opening of Montpellier also falls during MHA’s 75^th birthday year.

The day was especially exciting for the home’s resident Emmerdale fans, who were eagerly anticipating the arrival of the much-loved Emmerdale actor, John Middleton. John played the role of Ashley Thomas in the popular television show for over 20 years. Joined by him to kick-off the event was Sam Monaghan, Chief Executive of MHA.

The momentous occasion was marked by an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and cutting the cake, led by John, in front of Montpellier with residents cheering on. Following this, guests enjoyed cake and tea and the opportunity to take a look around the home for themselves.

Commenting on the home, John Middleton said: "The important word here is 'home' and that's the impression I get. It's a home where people can live with dignity and a whole lot of happiness.

"I first came across MHA while I was doing research into dementia for the character I played in Emmerdale. Their very first care home that I visited was Glen Rosa in Ilkley and I was absolutely bowled over by the care and atmosphere of that place. Montpellier Manor is the same - it's just newer. And I can't wait to come back to visit soon."

Montpellier Manor is situated on a greenfield site on the outskirts of Stainton, surrounded by landscaped gardens. It is also only a short distance away from the tranquil Fairy Dell park and the stately Ormesby Hall. 

With private en-suite bedrooms, a café, spacious lounges, dining rooms and a hair and beauty salon at Montpellier Manor, the aim is to make residents feel at home and at ease in their new home. The outside gardens are well maintained with lots of seating to enjoy family visits in the sun

Home manager, Gail Starling, who has 40 years of experience in the healthcare sector, took the lead in welcoming invited guests to the open day. “Today has been such a success – all of us here are so pleased that everyone has enjoyed the day so much!” 

“I’m delighted with the feedback we’ve received from our residents already enjoying life at Montpellier and pleased guests could get a true feel today for how we run the home, our residents’ home,” she added.