THORNTON-le-Dale has become the first village in the country to become dementia friendly thanks to the efforts of one of its residents.

Kim Pennock, became a 'Purple Angel Ambassador'' last year with the aim of raising awareness of the condition.

Every business in Thornton-le-Dale has now got on board with the campaign, displaying Purple Angel logos on their premises to recognise the training staff have been given.

Kim, whose mother has Alzheimers, first got involved with the scheme after finding it difficult to find the information and help she needed.

She was put in touch with campaigner Norman McNamara, and his wife, Elaine, who set up the Purple Angel dementia awareness scheme two years ago.

Norman who live in Torbay, Devon, was diagnosed with dementia at only 50 years of age. Whilst out shopping one day he was rudely spoken to by a shopkeeper and decided to change the way people see dementia and treat others.

The term ‘dementia ‘ describes a set of symptoms which include loss of memory, mood changes and problems with communication and reasoning. These symptoms occur when the brain is damaged by certain diseases, including Alzheimer’s Disease and damage caused by a series of small strokes.

There are about 800,000 people in the UK with dementia and although it mainly affects people over the age of 65 it can affect younger people.

Kim was named as one of the first 50 ambassadors in November 2013, with the number now standing at 250 worldwide.

"I am absolutely thrilled that at the end of my first year that Thornton-le-Dale has become the first village in Britain to become dementia friendly," she added.

"It was incredible how everyone jumped at the chance but then again the village does have an amazing community spirit - I've never known a village like it."

Kim said many people that she had approached had experience of dementia through family and friends.

"The training helps the recognise when someone comes through the door with dementia and how to approach them," she added

"I am thrilled to bits that people have been so responsive - it really has been the icing on the cake to mark the end of my first year as a Purple Angel ambassador."

Other businesses and organisations displaying the Purple Angel logo include Pattacakes at Welburn, Champleys,, Sentier, Taylor's fruit and veg shop and Reeds newsagents in Pickering, as well as Beck Isle Museum and Pickering Working Men's Club.

Libraries in Pickering, Malton, Filey, Eastfield, Scarborough and Whitby have also got involved as well as the National Trust properties Beningburgh Hall and Treasurer's House.

Kim said Thornton-le-Dale had been mentioned in the House of Lords by a person with dementia on behalf of Purple Angels.

The Prime Minister David Cameron also has a working group looking at rural areas and how they can be helped regarding dementia.

Kim said that much as she would like to continue campaigning as a Purple Ambassador, it was a voluntary role and she was now looking for a sponsor.

"There is a cost involved and do carry on for a second year I am looking for sponsorship," she added.

"It would be fantastic if i could find a sponsor and a huge help to me.

Kim said: "My aim with this was open doors to people with dementia.

"Mum supported charities all her life and I know that if she could she would be stood by my side - I am doing this for her."

Anyone who is interested in sponsoring Kim can contact her at sea2shore@hotmail.co.uk

For more information on the Purple Angel dementia awareness scheme go to
purpleangel-global.com