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75 passengers enjoyed a pre-Christmas trip aboard the memory train on Wednesday 4 December.
The trip was for residents in the district living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment to enjoy with a family member, friend or carer.
Essex Police greeted passengers on the platform offering advice and free gifts before they boarded.
The train carriages provided a very festive atmosphere with Christmas decorations and music. Passengers boarded the train with a wrapped gift and a puzzle sheet.
As the passengers travelled to Ongar Railway Station from North Weald they were joined by Father Christmas who gave everyone a surprise gift.
The final part of the trip was a magical journey through the forest where attendees enjoyed a light lunch, mince pie and a festive sing along before arriving back at North Weald.
A chance to reminisce
This was the 6th memory train event, made possible by Essex County Council Carers Community Fund in partnership with Buckhurst Hill Parish Council, Epping Ongar Railway and Epping Forest District Council’s Community Development and Wellbeing team.
The free event offered the opportunity to reminisce and take in the beautiful views of the district’s countryside.
A fun and memorable day
One passenger said:
My mum and stepdad both really enjoyed the train ride, lunch, carols everything from start to finish. It was a well needed day out and change of scenery for them both and a wonderful opportunity for them to go out and enjoy themselves.
Another commented:
Mum has been energised since she attended the event and can’t stop talking about how much was included. She enjoyed every part of it, she’ll be thinking about it for ages to come. Mum is 95 with dementia and said it’s one of those things she’s glad she got to do. Everyone was so friendly and she felt safe and comfortable every step of the way.
Thank you
Epping Forest District Council Chairman, Cllr Les Burrows who attended the event, said:
This was a great event; it was a privilege to be a part of.
Every part of the day was thoughtfully organised, from exploring a museum at Ongar station to enjoying a scenic train ride through the forest, complete with a visit from Santa and festive carols. A big thank you to the EFDC Community Development and Wellbeing team and their partners for bringing this to life. It was a wonderful morning that put everyone in the holiday spirit.
Enjoy together
Cllr Kaz Rizvi, Portfolio Holder for Community, Health and Wellbeing said:
The return of the Memory Train for its 6th event highlights just how popular it has become. Events like this are so important to give those living with dementia and their families a chance to unwind and enjoy something different together.
It’s a great example of organisations in the district working in partnership to deliver such a meaningful event.
Further information
To allow these popular and worthwhile days to continue we are looking into future funding options. If this is an event you would be interested in supporting or for more information, contact:
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