TOWN Councillors in Westhoughton could all be trained to become Dementia Friends after the idea was put forward by a borough MP.

Julie Hilling MP, who represents Bolton West, wrote to the council amidst a rise in the number of people suffering with dementia on a local and national level.

Ms Hilling put forward the idea of utilising free training from the Alzheimer's Society's Dementia Friends initiative, which would give the council awareness of how to recognise people with dementia and how to help them go about their daily lives.

Ms Hilling said: "There are many residents here in Bolton West and in Westhoughton who suffer from dementia, those with the condition still want to carry on with their daily lives and to be part of the communities for as long as possible.

"A number of local authorities in the North West are becoming, or have become dementia friendly and some have introduced the notion of Dementia Friends."

Work is expected to be completed next year on a new 52 bed care home for dementia sufferers on the old car park of the Red Lion pub in Wigan Road in the town.

Discussing the issue during a town council meeting this evening, members voted unanimously to endorse the idea, inquiring at the same time if the training could take place at the town hall.

One town councillor who has already undertaken the training is Cllr Karen Lawrinson, she said: "The course was really interesting and they explained all about dementia, how many different types there are and the different ways that it affects people.

"I was surprised as I have a relative with dementia and I thought I knew a lot about it but I now realise I knew very little."

Cllr Jack Speight added: "I think its a nice move for the council to take part in something like this and I believe it will give a good insight into people in our community."

It is hoped that once councillors are trained to become Dementia Friends, other members of the Westhoughton community may follow suit.