Warminster's new Dementia Centre cannot come any sooner for Ken and June Windess.

The couple are eagerly awaiting the opening of Alzheimer's Support's new centre where June, who lives with dementia, will become a member at The Old Silk Works day club.

June, 74, who lives with her husband Ken on the grounds of the Longleat Estate in Horningsham is known for her gregarious nature and uncompromising spirit. The pair, who recently celebrated 57 years of marriage, were longtime employees of the estate, Ken as Housemaster and June as Housekeeper of Longleat House.

Since retiring the couple have enjoyed geocache hunts and walking in the countryside, something that has become more difficult since June’s diagnosis. Although she can’t get out as much, June relishes seeing her friends and making new ones. She is also an accomplished cross-stitcher, having produced hundreds of different patterns, a talent she hopes to share with her new friends at The Old Silk Works. 

And having dementia has not taken away any of her sass, says Ken. “She never fails to keep me on task or keep me focused.” 

New friends

He said they were both looking forward to the new centre opening in May.  “June really enjoyed going to the Mill Street Club in Trowbridge. She made friends instantly there and we are looking forward to having the same resource just down the road. The staff were very helpful and it was lovely to meet the two little whippets.

“June often finds herself stuck in the house with me so she’s really looking forward to experiencing different company when the day centre opens.

"No disrespect to myself, but I’ve become part of the furniture. When we go into town or to the Lakeside Centre she is fine, she loves it because she enjoys herself the most when meeting new people and I know The Old Silk Works will be a great place for that.”

Please support our appeal

Alzheimer's Support is appealing for funds to renovate and equip the new centre.  Find out how you can make a difference for people like June.