Our History

We celebrated our 10th Birthday Anniversary in July 2024.  It's been quite some journey, as we really have come such a long way and achieved so much for our members and the town of Alton. One of the highlights was being recognised with the Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2022, in the last year they were awarded by the Queen during the Platinum Jubilee.

The Dementia Friends initiative from the Alzheimer's Society kick started the launch of Alton as a dementia-friendly high street on 1st July 2014, with many shops and businesses raising awareness of how to support people living with dementia and their carers to remain independent within their own community.  The first social group started with Legions Legends at the British Legion, closely followed by the Memory Cafe at Alton Community Centre. Fast forward 10 years and we could never have dreamed that we would have relocated our service to the iconic and beautiful Alton Assembly Rooms and offer such a wide variety of activities over six days of the week.  

On July 6th 2024 during at the start of the Alton Arts Festival week we showcased what we are all about with a stall and art display, before having a special 10th birthday Tea Dance - with special guest - then newly re-elected MP Damian Hinds.  The following weekend our members were very proud to lead a Tea Dance in the Park, with Music from Paul Tickner, as part of the closing ceremony for the Arts Festival . Our members continue to enjoy being at the heart of their community. The first 10 years have been truly amazing in terms of what we have achieved for our members and the community of Alton and the surrounding area.  We look forward - with hope and positivity - to the next 10 years !!