HUNDREDS of people flocked to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens to celebrate the fourth Dementia Festival.

Organised by Romsey Dementia Action Group, more than 500 people enjoyed the hot summer weather and engaged with more than 45 different stands, stalls and workshops.

The event highlights innovative ideas, allowing people to showcase their work with dementia and assist people who live with the disease.

The day focuses on known areas of help, such as aromatherapy, gardening therapies and music.

Live bands provided the backdrop as hundreds of people made the most of what was on offer.

Attended by leader of Hampshire County Council, Roy Perry and MP for Romsey and Southampton North, Caroline Nokes, they were joined by the mayor of Romsey, cllr Dorothy Baverstock.

Volunteer team member from Romsey Dementia Action Group, Amelia Abbott, said there was ‘so much motivation’ to make Demfest a success every year.

She said: “We are so proud of everything we achieved with Demfest this year. We have received so much positive feedback already and it gives us, as volunteers, so much motivation and determination to make sure Demfest is such as success year after year.

“We can’t thank the exhibitors and attendees and the volunteers enough for all of their support.”

Visitors spoke of the help and advice that was on offer and the difference it could make.

Other organisations at the event included Romsey Men’s Shed group, as well as Andrew Knight, who runs fortnightly music workshops, Music Unlocking Memories in Crosfield Hall.

Wessex Film and Sound Archive also showcased their pioneering mobile film theatre, drawing interests to the interesting and memory inspiring reminiscence marquee, and the Mayflower Theatre were then able to update visitors upon the refurbishment of the theatre and its reopening in September.

Patron of Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Roy Lancaster CBE, returned to open the fourth annual festival on July 8.