A FORMER convalescent hospital which today forms part of a care complex for older people has been awarded a Blue Plaque to mark its place in Ilkley's heritage.

On Monday Ilkley MP Ann Cryer officially unveiled the plaque at Grove House off Riddings Road, which is today part of the Abbeyfield Comprehensive Care Centre.

Grove House was opened in 1862 by the Ilkley Bath Charity, becoming Yorkshire's first convalescent hospital. The charity was founded earlier in the 19th Century to enable the poor to benefit from treatment at spa baths in Ilkley.

Money for the hospital was raised by subscriptions, and accommodation was provided there for up to three weeks for free treatment and baths.

During the First World War, it was used as an auxiliary military hospital, then became the Grove Convalescent Hospital. The hospital closed in 1993, and became the Ilkley Abbeyfield Extra Care Home in 2004.

Mrs Cryer said: "I have always allied myself with the principles behind this magnificent project and have followed its concept towards completion.

"I am truly proud to be here today to mark its Blue Plaque recognition and to be part of this event, confident that Abbeyfield will continue to play its part in the community for many years to come."

The blue plaque was sponsored by Ilkley Parish Council, Ilkley Civic Society and Brewster Bye the Architects. The Civic Society has organised blue plaques for a number of buildings around the town, and Mrs Cryer was previously invited to unveil a plaque at the Manor House Museum, Castle Yard.