A man behind a community project helping dementia sufferers in a Suffolk village has been hailed by the Prime Minister.

Lynden Jackson has been praised by David Cameron for being given a Points of Light volunteering award in recognition of his work setting up the ambitious Debenham Project.

The group serves a catchment population of 6,500 people – offering an array of services including a telephone support line and social support and exercise sessions.

Mr Jackson was inspired to set up the volunteer-based charity five years ago by his experience of caring for his late mother who had dementia.

Mr Cameron said: “When I began the Prime Minister’s challenge on dementia two years ago, it was people like Lynden I had in mind. His incredible dedication is transforming the lives of people living with dementia and their families in his community.”

The Debenham Project today has 100 volunteers and reaches 65% of the families within the community who are living with dementia.

Mr Jackson said: “Dementia is an illness that affects so many of our husbands, wives, parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbours that we cannot stand aside and hope that the nation will look after them.

“Eventually, medical research will come up with better treatments and perhaps even a cure but, until then, families and friends will have to shoulder the burden.

“A helping hand, someone who is there for you, and well-designed local support services can make a huge difference.”