TROWBRIDGE has become even more dementia-friendly after funding was approved to launch Singing for the Brain sessions in the town.

The musical get-togethers have been a hit in Bradford on Avon, Seend, Westbury and Lockeridge and Alzheimer’s Support, which is behind the project, wanted to set up a group in Trowbridge.

With the help of a £3,000 donation from Trowbridge Area Board, approved at a meeting on Thursday, people with dementia and their carers will meet up to sing songs with each other from next month onwards.

Stephany Bardzil, communications manager for Alzheimer’s Support, said: “Lots of people asked us if we could set up the Singing for the Brain sessions in Trowbridge as they’re popular in other towns.

“We’re delighted that we will now be able to do so and are very grateful to the area board for approving the grant.

“The sessions are really great because they encourage people with Alzheimer’s to communicate; it’s amazing what impact music can have, it really makes people come alive.

“Some of the songs are quite challenging and involve harmonies and complex lyrics – each session is very carefully planned to stimulate different parts of the brain.

“There is also time within each session to have a chat with tea and biscuits, it’s a fantastic opportunity to make new friends.”

The £3,000 funding will be used to pay a professional singing teacher and for general running costs, including the provision of tea and coffee for each session.

Songs will vary in genre and age with jazz, motown and modern hits being featuring at the event, which will take place at Mill Street’s day club every Monday afternoon.

Singing for the Brain was recently featured in a BBC Radio 4 documentary looking into the emotional significance of Handel's Hallelujah Chrous.

To register your interest, call 01380 739055.