ENGLAND rugby legend Dean Richards is teaming up with an award-winning baker to help with the conversion of a café to make it dementia-friendly.

The former British Lion, who played number eight, will be at Sweethart café, in Blackhill, near Consett, on Monday January 29.

Owner Mark Hart has introduced changes that will make his premises more welcoming to those living with the condition and has the support of the Newcastle Falcons’ director of rugby.

Richards said: “I was very happy to be asked to officially launch the dementia friendly café.

“A member of my family had dementia so I understand a little about it and can appreciate the importance of having places where people with the condition feel welcome and safe.”

The initiative has been made possible thanks to input from Benfieldside, Blackhill, Bridgehill and Shotley Bridge Community Partnership, which has been working with Alzheimer’s Society and other partners to make the café dementia-friendly.

Chairman of the partnership, John O’Connor, said: “I’ve known Dean for many years so I was thrilled when he agreed to be present at the official launch.

“Mark has worked with us to introduce changes such as clearer signage, but more importantly all his staff have undergone training to become Dementia Friends.

“That means they have an understanding of the condition and how it affects people, and can make allowances.

“As a result, this will be a safe and welcoming place for people living with dementia.

“My mother had dementia and sadly died last near, aged 89. I would have loved to have been able to bring her to a place like this.”

Mr Hart, a former builder, swapped cement for flour to set up a modest bakery and café in 2012.

Within 18 months of launching the business he had scooped a coveted Gold at the Great Taste 2013 awards for his baked egg custard and then appeared in the ITV series Britain’s Best Bakery.

Mr O’Connor added: “This initiative is all about reaching out to forgotten people who have disappeared from society.

“Isolation is one of the main catalysts for dementia becoming worse, so we need places to keep people engaged and feeling part of the community for as long as possible.”