DAWN Cox and Kyra French are a mother and daughter who have devoted their lives to supporting dementia sufferers and their carers.

Dawn, who worked for social services, and Kyra, who worked in a senior living centre, set up Larkhill Dementia Cafe, Thorley Lane, Timperley eight years ago when they both still working.

Kyra said: “At our twice monthly meetings from 10 – 12 noon on Saturdays, we offer entertainment, sign posting - telling sources of information - and counselling.

“When people get dementia they sometimes lose their friends.

“They support each other.” she said.

They stressed that both carers and the cared for come to the meetings.

Dawn said:”Even when they have lost their loved ones, former carers keep coming.

“Every time we pick a carer’s name and that person wins flowers.

“We sometimes ask our entertainer to draw the name.”

The entertainment enjoyed by the 30-strong group includes morris dancers and a comedian.

They have several choirs including Simply Voices and Sale Male Voice Choir.

“The male voice choir often performs. They understand people’s needs and if someone wants a particular song, they respond accordingly,” said Dawn.

On Saturday, November 11 the centre will ring to the sound of Tony Berry from the Houghton Weavers and his brother, James.

Dawn and Kyra also run a Later Life Living Day club at Norbrook Youth Club, 2 Bordley Walk, Sale Moor.

This gives carers a break whilst their loved ones are looked after. It runs from 10 – 4 pm five days a week.

* For more information, telephone 07708 430 887.