New project aims to knock loneliness for six

A NEW partnership hopes to hit loneliness for six by using the history of Headingley to encourage people to talk about their memories of sport.
By The Newsroom
Published 19th Feb 2016, 02:40 BST
Geoff Cope shares stories of his playing days at the 'Sporting Memories' launch event held at the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation in Leeds. Picture Scott MerryleesGeoff Cope shares stories of his playing days at the 'Sporting Memories' launch event held at the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation in Leeds. Picture Scott Merrylees
Geoff Cope shares stories of his playing days at the 'Sporting Memories' launch event held at the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation in Leeds. Picture Scott Merrylees

Charity the Sporting Memories Network, which runs reminiscence sessions across Yorkshire, has joined up with Yorkshire Cricket Foundation to support older people in Leeds living with social isolation, depression and dementia.

Former Yorkshire and England off-spinner Geoff Cope joined older people at the historic home of Yorkshire cricket yesterday to officially launch the project, which will see sessions held at Headingley and other venues to help connect people by sharing memories of watching or playing sports.

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Mr Cope said: “I have many great memories of my time with Yorkshire, its been lovely to spend time today with so many fans and to learn how even a simple image can spark so many conversations and new friendships. I hope supporters and players alike will get involved in the project and share some of their own favourite moments of the club.”

Tony Jameson-Allen, Co-founder and director of the Network said he looked forward to hearing “the great stories of cricket at such an iconic ground”.

Related topics:YorkshireHeadingleyLeedsEngland