Staff and patients at a centre for dementia patients had a new member of staff this week in the shape of Councillor David Marlow who helped out with lunch and general activities.

Councillor Marlow, the cabinet member for adult social services and health at Richmond Council, spent half a day at the Woodville centre, and said his visit was "enlightening."

He said: “Dementia can be extremely debilitating and difficult to live with – not only for those individuals with the condition but also for those with caring responsibilities.

“However, there is a great deal that can be done to help people with dementia live a good life and support those who have caring responsibilities. Woodville is just one of those services.

“My visit showed me how important the staff are to helping support the clients. Yes, they all have a wealth of professional skill and experience but they also bring something that money cannot buy – they care passionately about the people they work with.”

The Woodville Centre opened in October 2011 to offer daytime support for those diagnosed with moderate to severe dementia.

Activities designed for dementia patients include music therapy, flower arranging, cooking classes, computer training and creative arts; there’s also a sensory garden and seasonal reminiscence room.