FORMER Lebanon hostage Terry Waite officially opened a £60m retirement village that will create more than 100 Jobs for the community.

As Mr Waite, 71, unveiled a plaque helped by the village’s first residents, he said the complex in Letcombe Regis would “breathe life into the community”.

He said: “For five years I was homeless so to see these incredible facilities is magnificent.

“I write an article for a monthly elderly magazine and I am concerned about the welfare of people so to see what’s on offer in Letcombe Regis is stunning.

“If we do have developments in our rural areas, then we want them to be good developments, and this is.

“The community is heavily involved and can use the spa and restaurant, not to mention the jobs it will create.”

Mr Waite, who was held captive in Beirut between 1987 and 1991, also pledged to come back and stay for a night with his wife.

Jobs have been created for chefs, drivers, beauticians, carers and nurses and more will be offered when the complex is fully opened later this year.

The 12-acre site includes 66 assisted living and 72 independent apartments, as well as a 51-bedroom care home with provision for 30 dementia sufferers.

The residents have come from the surrounding area.

In exchange for Mr Waite’s visit Richmond Villages donated money to charities suported by Mr Waite.