AN INITIATIVE which is opening-up use of a railway line to people with dementia is continuing to grow.

A group from Dementia Friendly Keighley took a train trip as part of a day out in the Forest of Bowland.

Members travelled by rail to Bentham, before transferring to a coach.

They then enjoyed a walk along the Birch Hills Trail, which has been specially adapted for people with dementia.

The venture was organised by the Leeds-Morecambe Community Rail Partnership, whose working title is the Bentham Line – including the Airedale route.

Help was provided by rail operator Northern and the Forest of Bowland.

Bentham Line vice-chairman Rod Tickner, from Dementia Friendly Keighley, said: “It was the first time we had undertaken this particular trip – which involved a number of agencies – and it is extremely heartening to see how well it all worked.

“What we have achieved will become a model for future such events.

“Comments that were made, such as ‘I feel great now I have done this’ and ‘a wonderful experience’, make the preparation all worthwhile.”

The line’s chairman, Gerald Townson, says the event was part of an ongoing programme to make the route more accessible to those with dementia, and their carers and supporters.

“The overall feeling I had from the day was one of ‘renewed confidence’ among those participating,” he added.

“We also tried out a special all-terrain electric buggy, which can be used by those with reduced mobility.

“Previous supported visits have been to Morecambe but there are other possible trips people can make to destinations along the line, including a dementia-friendly walk at Saltaire.”

Further outings are planned in the coming weeks by groups from Keighley and Skipton.