'The music takes people back': Passengers on dementia-friendly service appear on Songs of Praise

People with dementia and their friends and family enjoyed live music, homemade snacks and soothing hand massages on the Forget-Me-Not Train, which ran between Whitby and Middlesborough last month.

Reverend Kate Bottley, who presents the episode, joined them on board the Northern service to discuss their experiences of living with the condition, their faith and their love of music.

The passengers also spoke about the benefits of travelling on the Forget-Me-Not Trains, which allow them to socialise in a safe and relaxing environment while enjoying views of the picturesque Esk Valley Railway.

Lisa Williams, General Manager of Esk Valley Railway Development Company, came up with the idea for the services and works closely with Northern to organise them.  

She said: “The atmosphere is always really good on board – it’s such a happy place.

“It’s a safe space for people to relax in, but it’s also a good place for carers to meet up and socialise.

“The music takes people back and you can see their feet tapping and heads nodding, but the train journeys can also bring back some old memories.

“We want to see more of these services run in other parts of the country.”

Ellie McWilliam, who was travelling with her 83-year-old mother Jean, said: “It’s just brilliant to be able to connect with other people in a similar situation and enjoy the scenery.

“It’s a great day out in a safe environment and everyone is so friendly and kind.

“Mum loves the railway and she used to volunteer for another train company in Northallerton.”

Ann Huntingdon, who was travelling with her 77-year-old husband Frank, said: “We came out specially for this service, to meet up other people in a really social environment.

“We always enjoy the scenery and it’s great to see everyone smiling and enjoying themselves.”  

The next dementia-friendly services are schedule to run on the same route on May 21, July 16 and September 17.

Tickets for these services can be purchased on Northern’s website or at ticket vending machines and station ticket offices. Disabled Railcard holders and their carers travel can buy discounted tickets.

Anyone looking for more information should contact Esk Valley Railway Development Company by sending an email to trythetrain@eskvalleyrailway.co.uk or phoning 07584 419114.

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,650 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.