The Babbacombe Memory Café members, who meet every Tuesday at St Anne’s Hall in Babbacombe, were treated to a fish and chip lunch over the road at Hanbury’s, courtesy of owner David Hanbury, just before Christmas.

The Memory Café is run by Alzheimer’s Society and is open to all those who have dementia, their carers and family members. Denis Johnson, a volunteer at the Babbacombe Memory Café, said “Each week from 1.30pm to 3.30pm we set up our café in St Anne’s Hall and have talks about all sorts of topics along with refreshments and entertainment, as well as an opportunity to meet others in a similar position and make new friends and bonds. He added “There are currently 800,000 people affected by dementia in the UK and this is expected to rise. Many people feel quite isolated and the café provides the ideal place to make new friends and relax.”

 

David Hanbury had recently given a talk about his 30 years in the Fish and Chips trade at the Memory Café and was only too delighted to invite them over for lunch. He said “I received a very warm welcome at St Anne’s Hall and it was lovely to have so many members and carers over to the restaurant for lunch. The Memory Café is a fantastic local resource and provides a really wonderful service.” Denis said “We were thrilled to receive David’s kind invitation and 39 of us enjoyed a lovely lunch at Hanbury’s.”

Anyone connected with dementia is welcome at any of the three cafés set up in Torbay. There is one in Paignton, one in Brixham and one in Babbacombe. Alzheimer’s Society would also like to hear from anyone who is prepared to volunteer to help out. Volunteers are always welcome but the Brixham café is in particular need of some extra assistance. For more information telephone 01803 669216 or visit the Alzheimer’s Society Shop at 260 Torquay Road.