Church of Scotland elderly home celebrates golden anniversary

Well Hall in Hamilton, a striking mock Tudor building, celebrated 50 years as a care home for older people on Tuesday.

The building, two cottages and 21 acres of land were purchased in 1955 for £3,250 and opened by Rt Hon Lord Clydesmuir on 20 November 1957 following renovations costing an additional £35,000.

A Service of Thanksgiving was held in Hillhouse Parish Church on Tuesday morning, exactly 50 years to the day since the home opened.

Well Hall is one of 31 care homes for older people run by CrossReach, the Social Care Council of the Church of Scotland

Catherine Kelly, Service Manager, said: "I think the first thing that hits you as you walk through the front door is the warm and welcoming atmosphere. This is due in no small part to the staff here who are amongst the most caring and dedicated group of people I have had the privilege to work with.

"The care and support they provide, not only to the service users but also their friends and family, is second to none. They are truly a prime example of how CrossReach works 'in Christ's name'."

However, there is no doubt that house is showing its age and therefore discussions are at an advanced stage with a developer.

CrossReach's Estates Manager David Reid explained: "We are hopeful that the existing building and part of the grounds will be sold with the proceeds of the sale reinvested in the construction of a new purpose-built 32-bed care home on the retained portion of the site.

"If all goes well, there could be a new Well Hall by the end of 2009."