RECORD numbers turned out for the annual Alzheimer’s Support Memory Tree event in Trowbridge Sensory Garden on Saturday (Sept 21), as the charity raised awareness about dementia.

The event gave visitors an opportunity to write a message on a leaf which was added to a tree in the sensory garden, while there were stalls selling books, gifts and refreshments in aid of Alzheimer’s Support.

Special guests Bratton Silver Band performed several songs as part of the third annual event, which was held ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day on Monday (Sept 21).

Alzheimer’s Support, which is located in Park Road, also welcomed Mayor of Trowbridge Roger Andrews for one of its Dementia Friends sessions, an initiative aimed at changing people’s perceptions of dementia.

Cllr Andrews, who was joined by Deputy Mayor Linda Self, said: “I was pleased to be invited to the event and I was incredibly impressed by the number of volunteers that were there.

“We had an introductory Dementia Friends session, which helped us understand a little clearer what dementia means to people and by the end we were able to know what signs to look out for.

“Alzheimer’s Support does fantastic work and it was obvious from the number of people at the event at the weekend just how much support it has in the local community.”

The charity offers a range of services to people living with all types of dementia and their family carers in east and west Wiltshire. It also campaigns to raise awareness of dementia.

Stephany Bardzil, development and communications manager at Alzheimer’s Support, said: “It went really well and we had a record turnout. The sensory garden was absolutely packed all day.

“It was great to have the Bratton Silver Band performing and stalls managed to raise over £800, which is also a record for us. The money will be going towards our services, including the day clubs.

“We had quite a few people get involved with the Dementia Friends session, including the Mayor, who said he would like to make Trowbridge more dementia friendly.

“The reason we hold the event is to raise awareness about what we do and to get people interested in dementia and it was wonderful to have more than 60 people put messages on our memory tree.”

Alzheimer’s Support also held its annual general meeting at Trowbridge Rugby Club on Monday (Sept 21) to mark World Alzheimer’s Day, with more than 90 people in attendance.