Barrow came alive at the weekend with the magic of music and movement at Strictly St Mary’s, a heartwarming afternoon dedicated to bringing people together through the joy of dance.

Taking inspiration from the beloved television programme, the inspiring session provided a rich, welcoming, and open environment for individuals living with dementia and their carers to indulge in music, rhythm, and fun.

Hosted at Barrow Cricket Club, who graciously gave the use of the grounds for free, visitors were welcomed to a glittering spectacle of laughter, movement, and friendship.

“We are absolutely thrilled with how Strictly St Mary’s went,” said Sophie Murphy-Ayeche, admiral dementia nurse at St Mary’s Hospice.

“The smiles, the laughter, and the atmosphere in the room were just great.

“To watch people come in and set their worries aside for a few hours and just let the music and the movement take over was enchanting.

“We are really grateful to everyone who helped make the day possible, from our fantastic volunteers and dancers to our wonderful guests who brought such energy and hope.”

The day was supported by Margaret Hetherington’s School of Dancing, whose dances got the crowd up on their feet and they even set some time aside to teach the audience a move or two.

Researchers have found that engagement in movement and dance can actually improve mood, mental function, and social interaction, particularly for people living with dementia.

The afternoon marked the final event in the Dementia Unmuted series and has inspired staff to start planning the next event to empower the community to live well and enjoy life.