A CAMPAIGN to improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers and families is to start in Okehampton and the surrounding area Dementia Friendly Okehampton (DFO) will be launched at a Dementia Awareness Day and information fair in the town on July 11. The free public event will feature speakers on a range of topics, from insights into dementia to what is available to support patients and carers, alongside stands from a range of organisations involved in helping those with dementia. Representatives from DFO — made up of students and staff from Okehampton College, Okehampton Town Council, members of Devon Senior Voice, the town's Chamber of Trade and Okehampton Rotary — will explain the idea of a 'dementia-friendly community' and how Okehampton can work towards becoming one. DFO spokesman Ken Crawford said: 'It's vital to remove the ignorance surrounding dementia and to work in partnership with others so people with dementia feel supported and can live well in their own communities. 'The condition affects not just the person diagnosed but their family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues — in fact, all of us in the community. 'That's why schemes like this, supported by people of all ages and from every walk of life, are so important in raising awareness and putting plans into action to support all those affected by dementia to have a better quality of life, now and in the future.' The Okehampton Dementia Awareness Day will take place on Friday July 11, between 10.30am and 3.30pm, with registration from 9.30am at the Charter Hall, with information stands also in Red Lion Yard. A buffet lunch and refreshments will be available for £5 per head —please book via Ann Crawford on 01837 840562 or email [email protected]">[email protected]