An annual event which provides information and support to East Hampshire residents affected by dementia has shown to visitors just how much help is available.

Organisers of the East Hampshire Dementia Festival have hailed the success of the October 31 event at Churcher’s College in Petersfield inspired by the late Jeff Williams.

The festival organised by Dementia Friendly Petersfield (DFP) with support from EHDC involved 25 organisations that provide information and support for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

It was opened by Damian Hinds with the East Hampshire MP hailing the roles of DFP stalwarts Audrey Morton, Julie Butler and the late Mr Williams in his speech

“This was, of course, the vision of the great Jeff Williams,” he said, in remembering the late Petersfield RBL member.

“His point was ‘of course it’s a festival’ because we are celebrating all the wonderful people who come together to support people affected by dementia.

Volunteers from DFP gave up their free time to make the event run smoothly while the café run by Winton House Centre did a roaring trade.

“Many people benefited from the information provided and being able to see how much there is out there to support people living with dementia and their families,” said Audrey.

Further highlights included a presentation about dementia and research by consultant psychiatrist Dr Harry Boothby and a short Active Dementia exercise session led by Beth Svarovska which Mr Hinds joined.

Archie McKeown, a wonderful singer who sometimes performs at the DFP Entertainment Group session run by Pam Robson, was exceptional while a performance in the auditorium by the Dementia Choir brought the house down.

Organisers would like to thank Mr Hinds, Churcher’s, EHDC, Alpha Graphics and stallholders for taking part. For more information about participating groups contact Audrey on 07966 759929.