Music and memories lift spirits thanks to inspirational choir at day care centre

The inspirational 'Memories are Made' choir takes place every Thursday afternoon at Lancashire County Council-run Mere Brook Day Care Centre in Ormskirk, bringing people in for a cuppa and a singalong.

The dulcet tones of around 20 local residents can be heard wafting through the corridors of the day care centre, based at Brookside Retirement Living Complex on Aughton Street, from 2pm to 3.30pm every week.

With musical favourites ranging from the Carpenters, John Denver, Abba, Tom Jones and Edelweiss to name but a few, the sessions allow people living with dementia, and their carers, to relax, enjoy a cheery, musical break and meet and mingle.

The upbeat singing is led by Caroline Darbyshire, of Community Interest Company Carousel Music and Movement, which helps people with mental health issues, learning needs and dementia.

Carousel Music and Movement was set up a year ago, and the sessions at the Mere Brook Day Care Centre began in April this year, attracting around 20 people a week.

Aughton resident Margaret Riley, who attended with her husband Peter Riley, on July 13, said: "We do enjoy this choir – I think it's fun and it stimulates people. We have had a dance and a sing today, and when you see other people as well, it's very uplifting."

Similarly, Doris and Brian Briscoe, of Ormskirk, enjoyed themselves. Doris said: "I loved the whole lot. It's just very friendly, and it's the first time I've been today, and it's brought back memories."

Volunteer and musician Beth Hill said: "It's very inspiring and fun, and it also really helps them to enjoy their memories through music, which is lovely, and it brings them a lot of joy."

Caroline Darbyshire said: "The reason why I've done this is because I want to make a big difference to people in the community. I have a real passion for dementia and the carers, family and the challenges they face every day."

Sarah Willmoth, daytime support manager at older people care services, said: "The people in our centre that attend really enjoy the choir, and it gives them a positive impact on their wellbeing - smiling, laughing, and they're very cheerful. We're involved in the community to support people living with dementia and Alzheimer's, and it's very important that we do become part of the community to support everyone."

The free sessions take place at the Mere Brook Day Centre on Aughton Street in Ormskirk, L39 3BH every Thursday from 2pm to 3.30pm.

There will also be sessions in Tarleton starting in September at the Methodist Church Hall from 11am-12.30. For further information on these, and other sessions, visit info@carouselmusic.org