A NEW art activity is being launched for people living with dementia and their carers.

The drop-in session takes place from 10am to 12 noon on Friday, September 28 at the Crosshatch Art Gallery on Queens Drive.

It is part of a new Brightlife Dementia and Carers Service which aims to help people aged 50 and over who feel isolated.

It is estimated that there are at least 2,000 people diagnosed with dementia in the Winsford area.

The Brightlife funded project is a partnership between Cheshire and Warrington Carers Trust, Age UK Chester and the Alzheimer's Society.

Winsford is the first place for a Bright Memories group to be established.

Organisers are working with businesses and community groups to raise awareness and create more opportunities for people with dementia.

Emma Thackam, from Cheshire and Warrington Carers, said: "People can live well with dementia. We want to make things easier and better for carers."

A befriending service called Side by Side is being developed to enable people with dementia to continue enjoying their hobbies and interests.

"We want people to carry on with the activities they enjoy doing such as going to the theatre or football matches," said Emma.

"We are appealing for volunteers to establish this befriending service."

Musicians and artists willing to give up their time are also invited help sustain art projects in the future.

New outdoor activities are also being arranged as spending time outside is proven to have physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Chris Mossley, a Natural Health Service ranger, will lead a weekly walk on Mondays at 10am, lasting no more than two hours including an optional drink at the end at the Station Cafe on Whitegate Way.

To register for the walk or become a volunteer with an outdoor activity group call 07747 011548 or email kate.bibby@ageukcheshire.org.uk.

The new service wants to hear from anyone who is caring for someone with dementia to ensure they are providing the right type of activities.

Anyone wishing to take part in the art activities can book a place by emailing emma@cheshireandwarringtoncarers.org.

Carers looking after someone with dementia can call the team on 0300 102 0008 or email advice@cheshireand warringtoncarers.org for further details.