He is an international boxing sensation with a host of belts to his name, but yesterday (Tuesday 24^th November) Hyde’s most famous son Ricky Hatton took a break from the boxing ring to open his home-town’s newest care home – Hatton Grange.

The ‘Pride of Hyde’, who grew up in the Hattersley area of the town, was on hand to declare the home officially open with a ceremonial cutting of the ribbon. Situated on Oldham Street, the state-of-the-art home which is owned by the Leeds based operator Ideal Care Homes provides a home for 70 residents – 30 for those requiring dementia care and a further 40 for residential clients with 100% en-suite accommodation, sensory gardens, floor-to-ceiling windows and a hair dressing salon.

Ricky, the two-weight, five-time former world champion, who is said to be contemplating a return to the ring next summer, also unveiled a plaque inside Hatton Grange, which has been erected in his honour. He went on to mingle with staff, including home manager Joanne Fogg, residents and their families who were delighted to meet the boxing sensation.

Pictured here with LNT Group and Ideal Care Homes Chairman Lawrence Tomlinson, Ricky Hatton said: “I am delighted to lend my name to Hatton Grange. It provides a valuable service to the surrounding community and it has been a pleasure to meet the team and residents here today.”

Meanwhile Lawrence Tomlinson said: “Ricky is a hero to the people of Hyde and plays a very active part in the local community, which is why I am so pleased he was able to officially declare Hatton Grange open. We are passionate about providing the highest level of quality care for the elderly population and are keen that the home becomes part of every day life here in Hyde. It is only right that Hatton Grange was named after Hyde’s most admired and famous son!”

Whilst Ricky has kindly lent his name to Hatton Grange, he has no personal or financial tie to the home which is owned by the private operator Ideal Care Homes. The home was built by sister company LNT Construction.