Denis Law Officially Opens The Oakes in Huddersfield

Published 17th July 2012

We are proud to announce the official opening of The Oakes Care Centre, a luxury, 60 bed care home offering stylish, spacious and luxurious accommodation for older people.

To celebrate the successful launch of the service, footballing legend and ex-Huddersfield player Denis Law officially opened The Oakes on Wednesday 11th July at 12.30pm.

Denis Law began his footballing career in 1956 at Huddersfield Town football club. After four years he left to sign for Manchester City. He is well known for the 11 years he played at Manchester United and is patron of a number of UK football charities.  The Oakes has a strong sporting connection with Huddersfield, having invited Andy Booth and Jordan Rhodes in April to view the sporting memorabilia collection for residents with dementia.

While at The Oakes Denis met residents and staff, including Leslie Sykes who dismantled storm damaged pylons at the old Huddersfield football ground in 1963.  Leslie, 92 on 10th July told Denis that meeting him had really made his birthday.  After the unveiling of the plaque resident Jack Keighley, 86 and a lifelong Leeds United fan, apologised to Denis for booing him for scoring a goal during a match against Leeds at Elland Road. He admitted though that "Denis was as good as any player I've seen."

Denis Law donated his fee to Meningitis UK. Steve Dayman, founding director of Meningitis UK was presented with the cheque during the opening and spoke freely about the charity and its importance. Denis Law's son was struck down with meningitis as an adult aged 24. His son thankfully recovered. It was after this experience that Denis became patron for the charity.  

Further information on The Oakes: www.meridiancare.co.uk/theoakes