Saracens Rugby Club has helped launch a new club for dementia sufferers.

Based at the Finchley Memorial Hospital, in Granville Road, the Saracens Dementia Club will offer help and advice to carers and sufferers of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Run by Councillor Lisa Rutter with financial support from Saracens, the club will follow the monthly Alzheimer's Society Dementia Café, set up two years ago.

Activities on offer will include dancing, skittles and singing, while a GP will be on hand to answer questions.

A launch party was held on Wednesday at the hospital to mark the occasion, with Saracens players Duncan Taylor and Tim Streather visiting, along with club chairman Nigel Wray and the Mayor of Barnet Councillor Hugh Rayner.

Gordon Banks, stadium and community director at Saracens, said: “We probably all know somebody suffering from dementia, and with an ageing population, it’s only going to become worse.

“It’s very tough on those families and their carers. If we can provide just a little bit of support in creating a club they can come along to and socialise, and offer them support, we think that’s a great way to contribute to the community.”

Cllr Rutter said: “The Alzheimer’s Society was my chosen charity while I was Mayor and the money we raised helped set-up and run the café. But that money was running out so we are delighted that Saracens are now offering their support that will help us continue to run these valuable sessions for those suffering with Dementia while also offering support to their carers.”

The club will be held every Wednesday from April 22.