A WEE COUNTY community centre is hosting an initiative to encourage older men with memory loss to make friends through sport.

The Sporting Memories group will be held in Alloa's Hawkhill Community Centre every Tuesday for over 50s.

Launched in partnership with Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland, the project will allow men with memory issues to meet up, share sporting memories and make new friends.

The programme aims to support people living with dementia, depression and loneliness by engaging them in discussion relating to sport and other topics.

Sandra Clements, manager at Hawkhill Community Centre, said: "Men are traditionally difficult to engage in group activities, but having an all-male project means they're more likely to turn up and join in.

"Groups like this are vital, particularly after the last year, and social contact is incredibly important.

"Sporting Memories have been brilliant at keeping in touch through online meetings, but nothing beats being in a room with friends, sharing memories and chatting," she added.

Partners of those attending are welcome to come along to meet other women living with and caring for a man with memory impairment.

The centre's café will be offering home-cooked food, home baking and hot drinks for the duration of the session.

Sandra stressed that the programme is also important for providing support to people who are caring for those with memory issues.

"We hope to tie in with other organisations like the Carers Centre and offer wives and carers an opportunity to meet up and share experiences or just switch off for a while," she added.

"They'll be able to go shopping, have a pamper session or just have a spot of lunch without worrying about their caring duties for a while, knowing their loved ones are safe and enjoying their group."

The group will meet weekly at Hawkhill Community Centre in Alloa from Tuesday, June 15 between 1.30pm and 3.00pm.

For more information or to book a place, call Sandra on 01259 218 139 or email sandra@hawkhillcc.org.