Radio and television presenter Angela Rippon opens new care home

Television personality Angela Rippon recently opened Caring Homes’ new flagship care home in Thames Ditton, Surrey.

More than 130 people, including neighbours and representatives from local businesses, as well as residents and their families, gathered to celebrate the Ascot-themed grand opening of Thames View and hear Angela’s experiences as a broadcaster and ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Angela Rippon said: “There’s only one word that sums up what I feel about Home of Compassion and that is ‘wow’. I cannot praise enough the work that has gone into creating this extraordinary home.

“Caring Homes is raising the bar on standards in care homes, not just with the facilities and beautiful building but with Avril Jones and her care team.”

Guests in attendance enjoyed a drinks reception and entertainment by The Wandering Hands, which was followed by lunch on the lawn and live racing from Ascot on giant television screens.

Angela and the Mayor of Elmbridge were given a tour of the historic building before meeting the care team and residents.

In keeping with the Ascot theme, Helena Jeffery, director of Caring Homes, presented Ms Rippon with a framed photograph - showing Angela riding a racehorse named Star Performance in 1977.

Avril Jones, home manager at Home of Compassion, commented: “We were thrilled to be able to show Angela and The Mayor our fantastic home with its beautiful rooms, superb facilities and excellent care.

“I know Angela has a particular interest in dementia care and she is clearly very knowledgeable about the subject and about care homes.”

Caring Homes’ multi-million pound investment has included extensive renovation of the 18th Century Grade II listed main house and adjacent buildings, together with a new extension.

Homes of Compassion now provides residential, nursing and dementia care for up to 78 older people.

Commenting on the new care home, Helena Jefferey, director of Caring Homes, said: “At Caring Homes we have always sought to combine the highest standards of care with the highest standards of service.

“Establishing a home of this standard requires a great deal of work by many talented and dedicated people.”

Tannia Shipley, Mayor of Elmbridge added: “I can hardly believe the transformation of the building. We are all so pleased to see Home of Compassion re-open and become part of the Thames Ditton Community again. The attention to detail in the restoration is stunning and it’s a very impressive care home with lovely rooms.”

Angela Rippon currently works as an ambassador for Alzheimer’s Society.

For more information about Caring Homes visit: www.caringhomes.org.

click here for more details or to contact Thames View