MEMBERS of Wellington Majorettes put their batons and drums aside for a special visit from Archie the Scarecrow.

Archie is the mascot of Wellington-based charity Reminiscence Learning, whose chief executive Fiona Mahoney and her team have made a big impact in making Wellington dementia friendly.

The majorettes got involved with the charity when they held a Scarecrow Fun Day in Taunton, when the whole troupe dressed as scarecrows to perform their usual routine.

Troupe leader Louise Brierley said: “We feel it’s really important for our team to be dementia friendly as we visit and entertain at many of our local care homes and our children have a greater understanding of how some of the residents may be feeling.”

One of the younger members of Wellington Majorettes, six year old Amelia Cox, said after Archie’s visit: “I’m never going to be scared or worried going to visit the homes again – I don’t want the old people to feel sad like Archie.”

Louise added: “We have five bookings for events at our local homes this year and the residents love to see the children – it’s just our way of giving something back to our community.”

Wellington Majorettes have a full diary of events booked this year. They performed for the first event of 2018 at the Goodlands Gardens Easter Extravaganza. They will be taking part in Taunton’s St George’s Parade this month and will perform at Wellington Park Spring Fair on Sunday, May 6.

For more information about the team contact Louise on 07796 933064 or email