Celtic and Scotland football legend Danny McGrain visited Crosslet House in Dumbarton last week to raise awareness of people living with dementia.

The visit, organised by Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland (SMFS), uses the power of memories to help improve the wellbeing of older people - tackling dementia, social isolation and depression.

The former professional footballer spent the visit reminiscing about past games and stimulating fun conversation and lively debates with residents.

Maurice Donohue, chief operating officer from SMFS, said: “Sporting Memories is a new and unique approach to tackling dementia by stimulating people’s minds.

"Our aim is to bring together younger generations and isolated older people living with long-term conditions such as dementia through sporting reminiscence and physical activities to improve mental and physical well-being, reduce loneliness, and connect with people in the wider community.

"I would like to thank everyone at Crosslet House who has helped make today a great success.”

Allan Macleod, chair of West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Dementia is something which affects many individuals and their families and we are very grateful to both Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland and Danny McGrain for arranging this visit and spending valuable time with the residents.”

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Marie McNair, vice chair of West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “I was delighted to welcome Danny to the home and to see his interaction with the residents. Giving people the chance to reminisce by sharing old stories is a great way to tackle loneliness by helping them relive their memories.

"I am delighted Danny visited the home which I’m sure was a great boost to everyone.”

Senior pupils Anisha Tagore and Hannah Fuller from Vale of Leven Academy also visited the home and got the opportunity to interview Danny along with some residents and visitors.

The pupils, who are keen on journalism, researched the former footballer’s playing career and prepared suitable interview questions prior to the event.  

The pupils now plan to write an article on Danny’s visit to the home to feature in a future Sporting Memories Foundation publication. 

SMFS is the first of its kind to be dedicated to the development and use of sports reminiscence, inclusive physical activities and intergenerational activities to support isolated older people across the country.

The foundation is the charitable arm of award winning Sporting Memories Network Scotland.