UNIVERSITY researchers have designed a virtual reality version of one of the region's busiest towns to help dementia sufferers navigate their way through the streets.

The project uses computer-generated images of Middlesbrough, projected on to a cinema screen.

Participants are then invited to go for a "virtual walk" through the streets and identify which elements of the journey they find easy or difficult.

Researchers can then modify the street design or signs.

The research team from Durham University is looking for volunteers to take part in the experiment.

Project leader Professor Tim Blackman said: "Many people with memory problems or with mild or moderate dementia still live in the community and are able to be active outdoors.

"But they can find it difficult to find their way and understand how to do things like cross a road safely or find somewhere to sit down for a rest.

"We are looking at how better signs, better design and better planning of town centres can improve this."

Other research has found that moderate physical activity outdoors may slow the progression of conditions such as dementia.

Prof Blackman's team hopes that the findings will encourage more elderly people to use town centres and stay active.

The project needs volunteers aged 60 or older who have memory problems they have seen a doctor about, or a diagnosis of dementia.

Anyone interested in getting involved is asked to call Anthony Martyr at Durham University on 0191-334 0460.