The Alzheimer’s Society marked 20 years of work in Redbridge with a celebration lunch yesterday (Tuesday).

The charity, which works with younger people with early-onset dementia, was the first organisation of its kind in London.

The anniversary celebration at the Living Well Resource Centre, in Chadwell Heath, was attended by the society’s chief executive, local staff, volunteers and people with dementia and their carers.

Redbridge service manager Coral Kathro has worked at the society since it began.

She said: “I am so proud to be able to announce the 20th birthday of such an innovative and vibrant group.

“I would like to thank our funders for supporting this service over the years and enabling it to flourish.”

More than 2,500 people in Redbridge are living with Alzheimer’s and the charity estimates it will rise by 16 per cent within the next 10 years.

The Alzheimer’s Society has helped over 100 younger people living with the condition since it began.

It offers a day support service, dementia and carer support, peer support and information services.

It is currently funded by the Outer North East London Primary Care Trust and supported with premises and transport by the London Borough of Redbridge.

For information on the Alzheimer’s Society, phone 0300 555 1197 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk.