A HI-tech table that helps people with dementia has been installed at local nursing home.

The Dutch-designed Tovertafel has proved a hit with residents and staff at the Castleford nursing home in Tutshill.

The table , which uses interactive light projections, gives access to around 20 games to help keep the brain active.

Manager, Ben Miller, said: “It’s a brilliant piece of equipment and its really exceeded our expectations.

“We had a gentleman who hadn’t taken part in activities for 18 months but, within days of getting it, he was using it which was fantastic to see.

Mr Miller first became aware of the Tovertafel after reading about it in a national newspaper in 2015.

He said: “The Dutch are miles ahead in terms of dementia care.

“I saw it and thought it would be really useful here.

“We believe it is the only one in the Forest of Dean.

“There are about 20 games such as popping bubbles, sweeping leaves, old sayings, and throwing balls for dogs. – there is something for everyone.

Staff at the home decided to raise the £8,000 for the Tovertafel after their success in getting cash together for a Christmas grotto in 2016.

Mr Miller said: “We needed £300 which we got in a month so we decided to start fund-raising for something bigger and better and decided on the Tovertafel.”

The aim was to have raised enough by 2020 but the generosity of supporters enabled Castleford House to take delivery at the end of November.

Mr Miller said: “Everyone has been incredibly generous. We’ve had lots of fund-raising events such as coffee mornings, walking up mountains, leg waxing and taking part in a 5K inflatable run.

“When people passed away we have had money donated. “We split the money we raised with the Alzheimer’s Society.

The home parent company, Milkwood, also made a donation.

“The last £1,000 came from a very generous member of staff.”

“It’s great for kids as well because it is games-based.

“Starting in February we will have school children coming in.

“It is great for them to play with elderly people and interact.

“Even if they are shy, the Tovertafel is a great ice-breaker and brings them out of themselves.”