Wednesday 4th and Friday 6th September saw two more trips to the seaside organised by the Bentham Line (Leeds-Morecambe Community Rail Partnership) for groups based in West Yorkshire; Dementia Friendly Keighley and Carers Leeds.
Group from Dementia Friendly Keighley arriving at Morecambe – Gerald Townson
Both visits were in celebration of National, Dementia Carers Day on Sunday 8th September, with the groups being made up of those living with dementia, their carers and supporters. The 36-strong group from Leeds was the biggest group to date to travel on the dementia friendly Bentham Line.
Both parties enjoyed afternoon tea at the iconic Midland Hotel, on the promenade near the station, as part of their visit, to help bring back memories and provide a grand day out to the seaside.
The trips were organised by the Partnership with the support of Arriva Rail North, the local train operator. Staff from the Partnership accompanied the visits throughout so that all the participants could focus on enjoying their day out. Thanks must also go to the staff at Lancaster Station who assisted with the changes of trains for the Leeds group.
Everyone had a a good time and, even though is was quite breezy both days, could enjoy the views over Morecambe Bay to the Lake District from the comfort of the hotel lounge.
Next year there will be an opportunity for those similarly affected by dementia, living in Morecambe and Lancaster area to sample the delights of Keighley and Saltaire towards the eastern end of the line.