Burnley FC in the Community and Pendle Brook Care Home in Oswaldtwistle celebrated the one year anniversary of their 'No Nay Never Forget Dementia Cafe'.

Participants enjoyed a visit from Clitheroe-based jazz singer Arthur Geldard, who came along to entertain everybody with a wide range of music including songs by Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra.

Everyone attending received a special anniversary travel mug and enjoyed refreshments including cupcakes.

The No Nay Never Forget Dementia Cafe meets every Tuesday at Pendlebrook Care Home between 10.30am  and 12pm and is a space where people living with dementia and carers can come and chat, play games, sing, enjoy entertainers, art and crafts and reminisce.

Claire Rothwell, who is the activity coordinator at Pendle Brook Care Home, said: “The Dementia Cafe is thriving with a regular group of attendees who enjoy weekly sessions including art and crafts, singers, animal therapy visits, chat and music. 

"We started up 12 months ago and have enjoyed all sorts of activities. People have come along and formed new friendships and shared experiences with each other, helping to navigate the difficult pathway from receiving a dementia diagnosis.

“Attendees help each other out and if someone has had a bad week, there's always someone to give advice or just offer a sympathetic ear or shoulder to cry on.

"I am really proud of what we and Martin and Lora from Burnley FC in the Community have achieved over the past 12 months.

"We also have some fabulous ladies, Helen and Maggie who volunteer every week, both bringing their own experiences of living through dementia with their loved ones, who are wonderful at putting people at ease and creating a lovely friendly atmosphere.

Norman, 79, brings his wife Sarah, 78, each week and mentioned how much they look forward to attending the events.

He said: “Sometimes it's difficult knowing what to do when your loved one has dementia, but we enjoy attending the dementia cafe each week as everyone is very friendly, welcoming, there's disabled access and facilities and the activities are perfect for people living with dementia.

“It's fun and informative and gives me chance to relax and enjoy a chat, as well as Sarah, as I know that we amongst a group who are also living with dementia and there no judgement or awkwardness, it's our safe haven.”

Claire added: “We have a lovely little group which is completely free to attend and no obligation to come every week. Anyone is very welcome to join us.”

Pendle Brook is a residential and dementia care home in Haworth Street which provides a safe and secure home for their residents.