A SCHEME that uses sporting memories to tackle loneliness, depression and isolation among elderly people has been introduced to North Yorkshire.

Sporting Memories Network showcased its work at Northallerton Library last week during Dementia Awareness Week, with founders Tony Jameson-Allen and Chris Wilkins discussing the benefits of using sport to bring people together and trigger fond memories.

Mr Jameson-Allen, a former psychiatric nurse, and his business partner Mr Wilkins, hope target typically hard to reach groups, such as older men, with the Sporting Memories programme which uses memory games and reminiscence activities.

Mr Jameson-Allen said: “Lonely older men are particularly hard to reach. They might have gone to football or cricket matches for years but now there's an empty seat in the stands because they’ve lost confidence in social situations, often after their wife or partner has passed away.

“We've been astounded by how successful the Sporting Memories Network initiative has been in tackling this and we will be making a particular effort to reach out to older men once our sessions in Northallerton start.”

North Yorkshire County Council’s executive member of adult social care and health integration, Cllr Clare Wood, said one of the council’s priorities is to improve the quality of life for people with dementia.

She said: “Whether it is rugby league, football, boxing or athletics, by using old photographs, newspaper articles and memorabilia, discussion can help once-isolated people forge new friendships.

“Importantly, it can rekindle an interest in playing sport as well, and some of Tony and Chris’ groups have set up their own teams to play the games they’ve loved.

“This is so important as it also regenerates social skills and tackles issues around poor physical fitness and obesity.

“I’m delighted Tony took time out of his very busy schedule so I could meet him and talk through with him his plans to develop pilot Sporting Memories Network sessions in North Yorkshire in the summer, working with colleagues based in Northallerton Library.”

Sporting Memories Network projects are volunteer-led and weekly groups meet across towns and cities to reminisce about sport.

The network was presented with the Best National Dementia Friendly Initiative by Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt at the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friendly Awards in May 2014 and is leading the Prime Minister’s Task Group on Sport and Dementia.

The first Sporting Memories group takes place in Northallerton Library on Thursday, June 11, from 11am until noon. To book a place email laura.dinning@northyorks.gov.uk or phone 01609-534812.