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Forest legends with over 500 appearances between them reunite for the first time in years
The players were surprised by former teammates Ian Storey-Moore and Alan Hill who joined them for a private tour
Meeting was arranged as part of Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Action Week, with both players diagnosed with dementia in recent years
Nottingham Forest was proud to recently welcome Club legends Frank Wignall and Peter Grummitt back to the City Ground to mark Dementia Action Week.
Dementia Action Week – running between 19-25 May – is a national campaign spearheaded by Alzheimer’s Society, dedicated to encouraging people to take meaningful steps in the fight against dementia. Each year, Alzheimer’s Society works with individuals and organisations across the UK to encourage people to act on dementia, with the focus this year on raising awareness of an early and accurate diagnosis.
Frank Wignall proudly wore the Garibaldi red between 1963 to 1968 and made 179 appearances for the Club, scoring 53 goals and earning two England caps. Peter Grummitt, widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in Forest’s illustrious history, made an impressive 352 appearances between 1960 and 1970.
In recent years, both Frank and Peter have been diagnosed with dementia and now reside in care homes within Nottinghamshire. In a visit which was organised with full consent of both individuals and their families, the Club was honoured to reunite the two former teammates for the first time in many years, creating a powerful moment of reconnection and reminiscence.
Accompanied by their families, the pair enjoyed a relaxed and private tour of the stadium – an emotional journey through a place where they experienced some of the proudest moments of their careers.
Upon arriving at the Boardroom, Frank and Peter were also surprised by former teammates Ian Storey-Moore and Alan Hill, who joined the gathering to reflect on treasured memories. The occasion was filled with warmth and laughter, culminating in a special moment as the four former players walked through the tunnel to see the hallowed City Ground pitch once again.
Michael White, Alzheimer’s Society’s Regional Services Manager for the East Midlands, said: “Events like this one at Nottingham Forest Football Club are crucial in shining a light on dementia. Dementia doesn’t discriminate, affecting everyone from football legends to lifelong fans. While research in this area is ongoing, it is vital that we continue to raise awareness and support people living with dementia.
“This Dementia Action Week, we’re highlighting the six most common symptoms of dementia and encouraging anyone with concerns to use our free symptom checklist and seek help from their GP or other health professional.
“More than a third of people with dementia don’t have a diagnosis, meaning they’re missing out on the vital care, support, and treatment they need. Our research shows that 97% of people affected by dementia saw a benefit in getting a diagnosis. An early and accurate diagnosis helps people to live independently for longer, access existing treatments, and can prevent crisis situations. It also allows people to better understand their condition and plan for their future.”
There is growing concern about the long-term impact of heading footballs on players from past generations, and research continues to explore the potential link between repeated head impacts and a heightened risk of neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia.
Frank’s son-in-law, Graham Abbott, is a passionate advocate within Nottinghamshire’s dementia support network and works closely with the Rushcliffe Dementia Action Network (RDAN). RDAN is a community-driven organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people living with dementia and their carers in the Rushcliffe area. Achieving charitable status in 2024, RDAN is now better placed to raise essential funds to deliver on its mission. You can learn more, access support, or make a donation by visiting here.
As a football club rooted in community and history, Nottingham Forest is committed to playing an active role in supporting dementia awareness and care across the county. We remain steadfast in our efforts to work with local partners to help build a more compassionate, informed, and supportive environment for those affected by dementia.