Emmerdale actor who played vicar with dementia delights care home's elderly

Actor John Middleton who starred as a vicar with dementia in ITV’s soap Emmerdale, has thrilled elderly fans when he arrived to officially open a care home, as a thank you to the care group which taught him about dementia.

For almost two years, MHA (Methodist Homes) advised Emmerdale’s show on its storyline involving vicar Ashley Thomas who developed stroke-related vascular dementia and the TV star’s gratitude was evident as he officially opened MHA’s newest care home Montpellier Manor on 26 September.

John Middleton said: "I first came across MHA while I was doing research into dementia for the character I played in Emmerdale. The 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. 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.”

Mr Middleton, who played the role of Ashley Thomas in Emmerdale for over 20 years said: “We absolutely needed MHA’s support and their knowledge and the way in which they could introduce us to people who could tell us their stories.

"As I started researching vascular dementia, I thought we had a huge responsibility to get it right. A lot of people have first-hand experience and awareness of dementia so meeting people with dementia and their carers has been vital.”

Montpellier Manor in Middlesbrough offers residential and dementia care and is the 90th care home to be run by MHA. Its care home manager Gail Starling said: “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.”

To prepare for his acting role as a man with dementia, Mr Middleton made several visits to MHA’s Ilkley-based care home Glen Rosa, where the impact on family members of those with dementia was also incorporated into the Emmerdale plotline.

Along with help from Alzheimer’s Research, MHA gave input into the scripts, characters’ dialogue and supported Mr Middleton to deliver a realistic portrayal of a village vicar living with dementia.

A whole episode was even filmed through Ashley Thomas' eyes letting the TV audience get a glimpse of his world.

Sam Monaghan, chief executive of MHA said: “John did a sterling performance in Emmerdale following the storyline of somebody who had early onset dementia and MHA were privileged to be approached to provide the guidance to those who were writing the script.“

Mr Middleton added: “I’m very proud to be here at the opening of Montpellier Manor. I’ve just had a look around and it’s an absolutely delightful place. You never know. I might come here one day.”