KIDDERMINSTER Harriers have created a "dementia friendly" area at Aggborough Stadium for fans with the condition.

Dementia patients and their carers will be able to sit in a designated area of the ground for the first time at Harriers game against AFC Telford United on Saturday (January 21). 

The club has been working to develop an official partnership with Dementia Action Alliance (DAA) in a bid to become officially recgonised as a dementia friendly football club - a place where those living with the disease can watch football in a comfortable and secure environment. 

Adam Crowle, development director for Harriers, said: "The work we have been doing with the Kidderminster DAA is making a real difference to those with Dementia, and their families, in our local community. 

"From the game against AFC Telford on January 21, onwards, we will have a specific area of Aggborough with priority seating on match days for those with Dementia and their carers.

"This is a first for any football club and we are pleased that it is happening at Kidderminster Harriers – it’s as a result of a lot of care and thought and after undertaking a ground audit with several staff from the club, Alzheimer's Society and people locally living with dementia."

Janet Smith, of the Alzheimer’s Society, added: “We are delighted to be working closely with Kidderminster Harriers to help improve the lives of those living with dementia. 

"By creating a dementia friendly environment we can ensure everyone in our community can continue to enjoy watching great football. 

"We want to challenge the stigma surrounding dementia and build awareness within our communities through the work of the local Dementia Action Alliance. 

"This will help us empower those affected by dementia to continue to do the things we take for granted."

As well as ensuring the ground is suitably accessible on the day, entry to the match for each adult and a carer together will cost £10.