A SPOTLIGHT was shone on dementia during an event in Keighley town centre.

Dementia Friendly Keighley staged its annual gala in the Airedale Shopping Centre.

Attractions included a host of stalls, provided by various organisations.

There was also entertainment, with music from Haworth Band.

The event was opened by the then Lord Mayor of Bradford, Keighley councillor Zafar Ali, and town mayor Cllr Peter Corkindale.

For Cllr Ali, it marked his final engagement in the town before relinquishing the mayoral role.

He said he was delighted to be present and praised the work of Dementia Friendly Keighley.

“Dementia is on the rise and affects many people across the communities,” he said.

“We must all do whatever we can to help raise awareness and give support by donating, volunteering or becoming part of Dementia Friendly Keighley, which is doing a splendid job.

“When I was chairman of Keighley Area Committee prior to becoming Lord Mayor I supported the project ­– and I will continue to support it.

“I was also privileged to open the new memory garden at Church Green, in the town centre, which has been planted with memory-evoking plants that stimulate the sense of smell and help people affected by dementia. The garden also created an area where people could sit quietly and reflect.

“There were several groups and businesses involved in this exciting project, and without their support it wouldn’t have happened, so thank-you to them.”

Steve Seymour, manager at the shopping centre, said there was “ a great atmosphere and buzz” at the gala.

“I am amazed at how many people came along and supported the event and took part in the various activities,” he added.

“The Lord Mayor and town mayor took the time to see all the groups attending and also spoke to customers and businesses.

“The Airedale Centre is proud to support Dementia Friendly Keighley and be a ‘Dementia Friendly’ business. Also, a good number of our tenants are Dementia Friends and know how much people living with the condition need this support and awareness so that they can stay an active part of the community.”