FOLLOWING a move by the Alzheimer’s Society to a new base in Ombersley, the charity is holding a Family Fun Open Day to mark Dementia Awareness Week.

The Fun Day is taking place on Sunday, May 18 at the beginning of Dementia Awareness Week from 12 to 4pm at the new local office in the Old Rectory on Main Road, Ombersley.

Visitors will be able to have a go at various games and activities, as well as finding out more about dementia and the work of the Alzheimer’s Society.

Gill Read for Alzheimer’s Society said: “Dementia has replaced cancer as the health condition people fear most. It is therefore no surprise that many people feel confused or even ashamed to talk about it. We all bury our heads in the sand from time to time but it is important to seek help. The sooner you know what you’re dealing with, the sooner you can get on with your life and feel in control again. This event is a great opportunity find out more about how Alzheimer's Society can help you.’

“The Alzheimer’s Society Worcestershire open day event is not only a fun day out but also a great way to raise much needed funds and get people opening up about dementia. We hope lots of people will join us this Dementia Awareness Week.”

The Family Fun Open Day will include a tombola, raffles, games and face painting, as well as a chance to try laughter yoga and singing for the brian, or enjoy a cake from the cake stand.

There will also be an opportunity to meet a team of fundraisers who are preparing to head off from Bromsgrove to Prague on May 22, in a ninja turtle themed car they’ve decorated and fixed up themselves, all in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society, or sit in on a Dementia Friends awareness session from 2-3pm and find out more about how to make the world a little easier to navigate for people with dementia.

As part of Dementia Awareness Week, which runs until Saturday, May 24, the charity is also hoping that people will hold their own fundraising events in the area, from pop-up restaurants to picnics in the garden, art events or street parties.

For fundraising ideas, visit alzheimers.org.uk/grandopening or for more information on the Fun Day, which is taking place at the Coach House, in the Old Rectory, Main Road, Ombersley, contact Samantha Wood from the Alzheimer’s Society on 01905 621887.