Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

My father, Lord Braybrooke, has had many passions in life – classic cars, aeroplanes, fine wines and eight daughters! but above all has been his passion for steam trains.  It was at the age of 7 when he first rode the footplate of the Great Western Pannier Tanks that “loco-mania” struck.  His love of everything steam has continued throughout his lifetime but his proudest moment was the opening of his 10¼” gauge Miniature Railway at Audley End by Sir Stirling Moss on the 16 May, 1964.  The Railway has been extended over the years and the track now runs for 1½ miles through the historic and beautiful woods of the Audley End Estate.  As the Railway approaches its 50 Anniversary it seems incredible that it is still one of the most popular visitor attractions in the area carrying 50,000 passengers a year of all ages.

 

          As we reach this momentous occasion I cannot help but feel a tinge of sadness.  My father was diagnosed with dementia some years ago and in full health would have driven the celebrations forward in his own inimitable style.  Sadly he may now not be able to fully appreciate their significance.  Through my researches into his illness I read a book called “Contented Dementia” written by Oliver James which describes the work of a wonderful lady called Penny Garner and The Contented Dementia Trust.  The book is so thoughtfully written and the opening letter from Penny on the first page was just the comfort I needed as we all came to terms with my father’s sad and cruel condition.  Penny Garner is a truly inspirational lady and through her work the Trust promotes a unique dementia management method that can be learned and used by anyone involved in the care of a person with dementia. Penny’s method and support have been invaluable to me and my family and it is because of this I have decided to dedicate our 50 Anniversary weekend to this amazing organisation.

 

          We are planning a weekend full of family activities on the 14 & 15 June next year and will have all my father’s steam engines in action.  I am looking to raise as large a sum as possible for The Contented Dementia Trust particularly as they are about to embark on a major fundraising project in order to finance a full scientific evaluation of the SPECAL method.

 

          Dementia is sadly something that touches many people’s lives.  Much research is being undertaken to look into ways of slowing the progress of this disability or hopefully even one day a cure but this may be some time away.  The SPECAL method promoted by Contented Dementia Trust is something that can be used right now to promote the lifelong well-being for people with dementia.   

 

          I now run the Railway for my father with an amazing team of dedicated staff and am honoured not only to be involved with this momentous anniversary but also to have the opportunity to support such a worthwhile organisation.  I hope that you too will want to be a part of my aspirations.