14 April 2026
Borrage House care home celebrates 35th anniversary
The home celebrated with a party for residents, colleagues, and members of the local community.
Residents marked the milestone at Borrage House care home with afternoon tea, supported by live entertainment from local group The Bluebirds.
Borrage House opened its doors to its first resident, Mrs Welch, on the 26 March 1991. The official opening was on the 3 April 1992, with Lady Masham carrying out the honours. It seemed only fitting that the 4th Earl of Swinton and Lady Masham’s nephew, Mark Cunliffe-Lister, joined residents for the celebrations. The Right Worshipful Mayor of Ripon, Cllr Barbara Brodigan, was also in attendance.
Home Manager Michelle Douthwaite said:
We cannot believe it’s been 35 years since we opened. We are really proud of the wonderful community we have here.
The care colleagues here have worked hard to create a fun, enabling environment for our residents who benefit from top quality care. This would not have been possible without everyone at Borrage House pulling together.
It has been an exciting time for Borrage House. Since we opened, we have held summer BBQs alongside veteran and dementia friendly events.
A highlight for me was receiving our Veteran Friendly Framework status, and sharing this with the local community, and linking the Royal British Legion and the Royal Engineers Association together with Borrage House who have now become firm friends and regular visitors. We look forward to many years to come.
Jean Walker, 91, who has lived at Borrage House for 11 years, said:
I really enjoyed celebrating the home’s anniversary. It was a lot of fun, and nice to think back on all that has happened in those years!
I remember when I first moved here in 2015 - it just seems like yesterday! I suppose time does go quickly when you’re having fun.
