FORMER Auf Wiedersehen Pet star Tim Healy returned to his home town yesterday to open a unit for the elderly.
The TV celebrity was in Birtley, near Chester-le-Street, to open Shadon House, which offers care for 23 people suffering from dementia.
The unit, in Northumberland Place, will provide a permanent home for 12 people and will offer care to another 11 people on an emergency or respite basis.
The actor said: "I am sure it will be of great value to a large number of people who are suffering from dementia and other relevant problems, and those who look after them."
Gateshead Borough Council has invested £1m in refurbishing the centre, which will be staffed by a 26-strong medical team who will offer individual care and support for families.
The centre aims to help people with dementia live as normal a life as possible, providing social activities including dance and music.
Councillor Peter Mole, cabinet member for social care at Gateshead council, said: "Traditionally, older people suffering from dementia are stigmatised.
"At Shadon House, they will be treated with sensitivity and respect."
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