Memories of legendary Town striker Matt Tees shine bright as new complex is named in his honour

Magic memories - Matt fires home another goal for the Mariners

A NEW dementia care complex has been named after former Grimsby Town footballer Matt Tees.

Located at  Peaks Lane, Grimsby,Tees House is a three-storey complex that includes 31 ensuite residential rooms, a communal lounge and overnight facilities for family members. 

It also accommodates a state-of-the-art sensory room, cinema, podiatry, beautician, indoor gym, hairdresser and activity rooms. 

It also provides support to individuals moving on from older peoples’ acute and long-term inpatient units. It is surrounded by landscaped gardens and green space.

The project has been initiated by the organisation, NAViGO, whose chief operating officer Janine Smith says: "The Tees House site enables us to offer support tailored to a person’s individual needs at what is often the most vulnerable stage of their lives. 

"Having services co-located within enhanced space for activities and relaxation creates more opportunities for meaningful engagement for the residents, their families and the local community."

Since Matt Tees' death in November 2021, his wife, May, has been actively involved in supporting other families affected by dementia, and regularly volunteers within NAViGO’s services. 

At the official opening on Wednesday of this week - October 10 was World Mental Health Day -  she said: "Matt was a footballer - that’s what he did but this was not who he was. 

"He was kind and until the end a true gentleman with a dry sense of humour. A complete family man. He adored his sons, daughter-in-laws and of course his four grandchildren. 

"The Tees family is delighted and honoured to have Matt’s name on such a wonderful building.

"Tees House looks to the future - the facilities are unbelievable. 

"What NAViGO is doing is fantastic - helping both the younger and older generation with their mental health.” 

Grimsby Town FC has also been very supportive.

"The club's  home game tomorrow against Accrington Stanley will be the next Mental Health Awareness Matchday, encouraging positive conversations about mental health among supporters and improving knowledge around the subject.

"Players will warm-up in NAViGO t-shirts, the big screen will be utilised to showcase key messages and wallet-sized cards with signposting information will be distributed by NAViGO staff on the turnstiles before the game."

                                                        

I declare Tees House open! May cuts the ribbon watched by (from left) Freedom Nokwedi (assistant director for older people's services), Kristine Green (fan-elected director, Grimsby Town FC), Janine Smith (chief operating officer) and Simon Beeton (chief executive) 

In memory of Matt - the new complex

Matt with sons Neil (left) and Andrew

                                                                    

Another magnificent display - May and Matt