I was very fortunate to meet Alan Beck at Didsbury Good Neighbours when we ran the Friendship & Activity group together. Alan had been an academic, author and lecturer in drama for many years before retiring to Manchester. He had also been a campaigner and advocate for various causes that were dear to his heart.

In Manchester he was church warden at St Chrysostoms Church. He also supported trafficked men through teaching them English as a second language – and more! Alan never went home to relax; he was always on the go!

Alan got involved with our group called ‘Concert in the Lounge’ and encouraged members to sing, dance and enjoy music. He was always charming to the ladies but he went above and beyond to make each member with dementia feel special. Alan was funny, clever, insightful, and had high standards in everything he did. He wrote the script for the ‘Unforgettable Sound of Music’ which was performed by the Fab Forgetful Friends in 2019.

Sadly, Alan developed cancer and died after a short illness. We miss him greatly but are grateful for all that he did as a brilliant and committed volunteer for over 5 years, for TDS.

by Sally Ferris, CEO, Together Dementia Support