A CAMPAIGN to fund the opening of a dedicated dementia centre in the Wee County is now just within reach after another fantastic donation.

The Clackmannanshire and Stirling fundraising branch of Alzheimer Scotland began efforts to raise £100,000 at the beginning of the year so it could open the resource centre in the region.

Earlier this month the group held an afternoon tea at the Ladybird Tea Room in Alloa and just last week, they were handed a cheque with a further £1,400 which was raised at the event.

This puts the grand total at a fantastic £77,000, and the Advertiser understands the group is optimistic that they will hit their total in the coming months, with more events planned.

Debbie Cassidy, a member of the fundraising team, told the Advertiser: "Alison Turner at the Ladybird Tea Room held an afternoon tea on behalf of Alzheimer Scotland to support the campaign.

"Alison arranged for entertainment at the very successful event from the Alloa Musical Players and a fifteen strong group of local ukulele players.

"Around sixty people attended the event at Alva Parkland Pensioners centre and enjoyed music and entertainment from the war years at Bert's Bash.

"A cheque for £1,400 was proudly presented to me and Bernard McCallum of the local fundraising branch of Alzheimer Scotland."

Debbie added that with the target now in sight, the group can begin looking for suitable buildings which could house the centre.

She said: "Locally, the volunteer branch has raised £77,000 this year. The search is now on for a suitable property which can be purchased to accommodate the dementia resource centre.

"The centre will provide opportunities for everyone diagnosed with of living with dementia as a one- stop hub for support, activities and care facilities."

There are further events planned for the remainder of the year, including a ceilidh, a party night at the MacDonald Inchyra Hotel, Falkirk, and a Christmas coffee morning.

To get involved or learn more of what is planned, contact Debbie Cassidy at dcassidy@alzscot.org or mobile 07989 047299.