MP WILLIAM Hague performed the honours at the opening of a mental health recovery unit in Northallerton.
The former Tory leader officially launched the Sunbeck unit for Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust.
Part of the trust's mental health services, the unit provides residents with rehabilitation, promoting independence before a return to the community.
The £120,000 project was completed with Broadacres Housing Association.
Trust chairman Sue Young said: "Sunbeck is not only a place that will help people regain skills and move back into the community, but also a symbol of the changes in approach and attitude to people with mental illnesses.
"Sunbeck will enable us to support residents to assume responsibility for themselves. This is an active process and requires more of a partnership approach between residents, staff and other agencies."
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