AN appeal has been launched online to fund a series of special ‘memory trains’ on the West Somerset Railway (WSR) for people suffering dementia and their carers.

The West Somerset Railway Association (WSRA) hopes to bring in £8,000 which will pay for four trains during the year to provide free journeys for 200 people.

A WSRA spokesperson said: “Heritage railways and community rail networks across the UK frequently operate dementia-friendly ‘memory trains’ and memory cafes in vintage carriages.

“The project will be specially designed to evoke nostalgia and well-being.

“The sensory-rich journeys will feature vintage tea and lunches, singalongs, and relaxed environments that stimulate memory recall and offer safe, welcoming days out for people living with dementia and their carers.”

The volunteer-led charity association works to preserve and restore the heritage of the WSR, fund-raise, promote education, ensure community involvement, and leave a legacy for future generations.

The ‘memory trains’ project is aimed at providing support and services to enable people living with dementia to live better and maintain their independence and well-being.

The spokesperson said: “We want these experiences to bring joy, laughter, and a meaningful connection.

“The sessions will be packed with fun, themed activities that keep minds active, boost confidence, and lift spirits.

“Our volunteers and community engagement officer will be on hand to offer support and to ensure everybody has an enjoyable trip.

“We know that the historic environment can do wonders for people’s wellbeing.

“Green spaces and inspiring locations full of history can transport people to another time, boost their mood and reconnect them with the things that bring us joy.

“Our project attempts to bring those benefits to vulnerable people, getting them out of their normal environment, in turn building their self-belief and encouraging positive wellbeing.”

The WSRA is working with Wellington-based dementia charity Reminiscence Learning to deliver the project.

Last year, a pilot project saw clients, carers, and staff of the charity travel on a steam train from Bishops Lydeard to Stogumber.

The spokesperson said: “We were pleased to be able to include those with limited mobility, due to the adapted carriage and ramp available.

“The group enjoyed train-related activities during their journey and continued with music, dancing, and a spectacular cream tea in the beautiful gardens of Stogumber station, while watching the steam trains pass by.

“Memory training and cognitive stimulation exercises can help delay cognitive decline, improve daily function, and boost emotional well-being for individuals with mild-to-moderate dementia.

“While these activities are not a cure, clinical frameworks like cognitive stimulation therapy show that structured brain engagement can match the effectiveness of some anti-dementia medications without the accompanying side effects.”

The spokesperson said NHS Somerset estimated 10,000 people in the county were living with dementia, although only 5,800 were officially diagnosed.

They said the figures were growing faster than the national average, making post-diagnosis support a priority across Somerset.

The WSRA has set up a Crowdfunding page for donations and hopes to reach its target by September.