HOLLYWOOD came to Basildon when superstar actor Eddie Marsan lent his voice to an Echo-backed dementia event.

The Ray Donovan, V for Vendetta, Sherlock Holmes and Gangs of New York actor dropped into Basildon Library on Thursday to support the ‘United Voices Against Dementia’ event. It was organised by staff at both Basildon Library and Basildon Hospital Library, following an idea from the hospital’s dementia lead nurse Jane Gilby.

More than 30 members of the public also visited the event as part of Dementia Awareness Week to record their memories of Basildon and read a classic book chapter, a poem or newspaper article from the Echo archives.

Known as ‘reminiscence therapy’, the recordings will be uploaded to mp3 players for patients living with dementia to listen to while they are in hospital.

Eddie brought his mum Anna to the session and they both made recordings. Eddie tweeted about his visit afterwards and said: “It was a wonderful morning at Basildon Library with the team from Basildon Hospital. My stepfather died of dementia. My mum and I were honoured to record readings for reminiscence therapy.”

Clare Culpin, managing director of Basildon and Thurrock Hospitals, said: “It has been a pleasure to be involved in such a unique project that will enhance the care we give to our patients with dementia.

“Dementia is a disease that has directly impacted upon my family. I decided to read one of my favourite childhood stories and I hope the patients enjoy listening to it.”

There was a selection of material to choose from including Fifties and Sixties newspaper articles and book chapters and poems. Many people decided to just chat about their own memories or the area.

As well as the recordings, there was an information stand and Jane was on hand to answer any questions.

She said: “It’s been great to see how receptive people have been to what we’re trying to do and how eager they are to be involved. Dementia is something a lot of people have experience of and they want to be able to help.”