Share Your Golden Memories On Saturday

Following on from Bristol Rugby’s recent derby clash with Bath, Saturday’s fixture against Barnsley is the second ‘Memories Game’ to be held at Ashton Gate, as the Community Foundation rolls out its Golden Memories programme.

Golden Memories is a collaborative programme in partnership with the Bristol Sport Foundation and Sporting Memories Foundation, targeting over-55s living with dementia and those challenged by social isolation, depression and loneliness. 

The programme includes a reminiscence session - an informal and relaxed discussion group based around shared stories and exploring a range of sporting memorabilia and sensory objects. This is followed by a time of social interaction over an old-fashioned cup of tea and a biscuit and then a period of light physical activity. 

Programme manager Kris Tavender said: “Our Golden Memories programme has really allowed us to have a huge impact on a very isolated area of our local community. 

“Whilst only a small and sensitive group by nature, our Friday sessions have really allowed us to work with some of the most vulnerable individuals from the immediate Ashton Gate neighbourhood. 

“Our partnership with Sporting Memories Foundation and working with venues like Bristol Indoor Bowls Centre really allows us to be bespoke in our provision for these truly unique older people.” 

Bristol City Community Trust head of operations Dan White added: “We are asking for people to share their own Bristol City memories on Saturday to help their fellow supporters who are suffering from dementia. 

“The memories will be uploaded to the sporting memories framework which acts as a memory bank to help those suffering with the disease. 

“It would be amazing if City fans can share their special memories to help those in need.” 

Members of the Trust’s walking football team will be placed around the stadium ahead of kick-off and at half-time asking fans to share their memories. 

Speaking to City's official YouTube channel, Academy product Zak Vyner reminisced about making his first team debut at MK Dons ahead of Saturday's Golden Memories fixture.   

The inaugural and flagship group is based at Bristol Indoor Bowls Centre in Ashton Vale, on the doorstep of Ashton Gate Stadium, running weekly sessions every Friday from 12.30pm-3.30pm. 

Partners and carers are very welcome to the group and are encouraged to join in and really enjoy their own experience alongside those that they are there to support and care for. 

Sessions are free for participants, with the immediate future of the flagship programme secured through the support of Premiership Rugby, Comic Relief and Bristol Sport Foundation. 

For more information on how to get involved, contact the Trust on 0117 963 0636.