A cricket match, specially adapted for people with dementia, helped attendees ‘embrace their hobbies’ as they played in London for the second year running.

Kia Oval, in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, held a match which aimed to be a relaxed, supportive and accessible environment for people with dementia and their carers to enjoy.

The match – which was between Surrey and Warwickshire – was free of charge for over 50 people with dementia and their families and carers.

Support was also provided at the event with rooms and facilities available to those who were effected by dementia.

Pete Smith, from South Norwood, who attended the event said: “I was diagnosed with dementia three years ago and my wife managed to get a ticket for a game for the Oval.  Thanks to the Alzheimer’s Society, my friend Dave and I had a great day watching Surrey playing Warwickshire at the Oval on Sunday. 

The 74 year old added: “The Society representatives at the match were great. A magical day out in the sun watching some proper cricket with a friend.  I’d certainly classify that as a dementia-friendly event. You can get on with your life if you approach dementia properly.”

Jon Surtees, Head of Communications at Surrey County Cricket Club, said: “We were really happy to work with the Alzheimer’s Society to stage a dementia-friendly cricket match for the second year in a row.

“We understand the impact that can be had by taking people living with dementia back to places where they’ve enjoyed some of their happiest memories and will always be happy to work with families and carers to offer help and positivity wherever we can.”

Esther Watts, Senior Dementia Friendly Communities Officer for Greater London, added: “It’s important that people realise this isn’t just about healthcare and services if we are really going to achieve our goal.

 “We need more organisations across London to follow suit and help people with dementia live good quality, independent lives in London.

By taking smalls steps like using dementia-friendly signage or having dementia-aware staff, we can all make a big difference to the lives of people affected by the condition.”