Burnham-On-Sea’s Mayor was the VIP guest at a special concert to raise funds for a musical activity group for people living with Dementia called ‘Music for the Memory’ on Saturday (February 20th).
Kevin Baker and Julie Skinner welcomed Mayor Michael Clarke to the concert, which was held in Burnham’s Baptist Church.
The Trinity Entertainers from Yeovil and local group MusicElles performed during the evening.
“We had a good turnout and hope to have raised a good sum towards the running of Music For The Memory,” said Julie.
Under the banner of ‘Singing for the Brain’, the group of people with memory-related illnesses have been meeting together with careers and relatives at Burnham Baptist Church for just over two years.
“This initiative enables the group to meet in a relaxed environment to perform a variety of songs and simple exercises,” said Julie.
“This enriches the well-being of people at a time when the quality of their lives has been limited by their illness, and the benefits to those who use the service have been well documented generally.”
Music For The Memory is an independent group, not a charity, and is currently fully-subscribed with more than 60 members.
Julie added: “It meets fortnightly at Burnham-On-Sea Baptist Church and there’s currently a waiting list as it’s proving so popular. As far as we know, we are the only local group of its kind that meets in a non-medical environment. The singing and dancing really helps to stimulate those in need.”
“Music for the Memory would like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers, local organisations for the support that they have given us, especially the local branch of The Moose who printed all our posters, flyers and tickets for the concert. Without this help we would not have been able to keep this popular group going.”
Pictured: Top – Kevin Baker and Julie Skinner welcomed Mayor Michael Clarke to the concert in Burnham’s Baptist Church; Centre – The Trinity Entertainers from Yeovil; Above – local group MusicElles
