THE room was ‘buzzing’ as a Chard carer support group celebrated nearly a decade of Alzheimer’s aid.

Last month marked the ninth birthday for the Alzheimer’s Society’s Chard Memory Café, and the group celebrated with cake, games and a seed planting session with Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

Rhea Cousins, Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support Worker, leads the group, assisted by a team of dedicated volunteers, many of whom have worked with the group since it began.

She said “We’re so fortunate to have a fantastic combination of lovely volunteers and wonderful group members.

“I am so proud of how welcoming and supportive the group is. Everyone always seems so pleased to see each other, and the room buzzes with chatting and laughter.

“We’re always happy to see new faces and I’d like to encourage anyone affected by dementia to come along and see what the Memory Café is all about.”

Pamela and Michael Moore have been attending the group for more than four years, and said: “It’s a happy group. We have no family in the area, so it’s been helpful for making us go out, and for making new friends. The volunteers are second to none.

“It can really lift your mood if you’re feeling down, and there’s always somebody here who can point you in the right direction if you need help or support.”

The group is held at Chard English Martyrs Church Hall on alternate Wednesdays. If you would like to find out more you can contact Alzheimer’s Society’s Langport Office on 01458 251541.