27th June 2023

Supporters and funders were able to see the fruits of their fundraising at the official opening of Scots Lane Club this week.

The club in Salisbury opened to members at the end of March after a £100,000 fundraising campaign and major renovation project to create a purpose designed dementia centre serving Salisbury and South Wiltshire. 

It was officially opened by Alzheimer's Support's patron Lady Lansdowne, who occasionally volunteers at the charity's sister club in Devizes.

She said: "There is something about these day clubs, the minute you walk through the door, there is a feeling of joy and hope. For someone who has recently been diagnosed with dementia and their families, it's a really tough time, but to come to a place like this and to feel the energy in this room and the joy and colourfulness - that is what you have all achieved. Every town like Salisbury needs a place like this and for the families it is an essential lifeline so thanks to everyone who worked so hard to put this together."

Alzheimer's Support CEO Sarah Marriott said: "We are very proud of what we have achieved here but we could not do this on our own. Today is a very big thank you to everyone who has fundraised, who has picked up a paintbrush or helped clear the debris out the building. 

She singled out volunteer project manager Alan Sharpe and community fundraising manager Rachel Fear who were both instrumental in getting the project completed, for special thanks for their 'phenomenal input'.

One of the guests was Chris Thomas, pictured above, who cycled from Lands End to John o' Groats to raise nearly £3,000 for the new club. He said: "It is great to be here to see what I have been fundraising for. I want to do more now and carry on supporting the club with my singing group. We might even put on a concert to raise more funds."

Scots Lane Club is open four days a week, and dementia centre also offers advice and information for anyone concerned about memory loss or dementia. 

 
More about Scots Lane

Volunteer at the club