A singing group aimed at helping people with dementia will be set up in the district.

The Singing for the Brain group is due to run at the British Legion Club in Church Hill, Loughton, from Thursday.

Specially trained professionals will lead the classes, which will focus on vocal and physical exercises and songs from the past in different styles.

Marion Howell, support services manager for the Alzheimer's Society, which will run the sessions, said: “Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled, if only for a short while.

“The sessions help people with dementia communicate, improving their mood and leaving them feeling good about themselves.”

For more information, call 07803 115826.