PEOPLE living with dementia, their carers, friends and family are invited to attend a free dance session in the studio at Pocklington Arts Centre on September 26 at 10am.

The session, run by York St John University's dance department, seeks to provide a sense of wellbeing for those in the early stages of dementia and their companions and is suitable for all ages and abilities.

Sessions are held regularly at the university, again led by the dance department, but Pocklington Arts Centre is keen to introduce those affected by dementia in the Pocklington area to the benefits of dance and gentle movement.

Director Janet Farmer says: "The dance sessions for people with dementia held at York St John University are so beneficial for so many people, we just felt it would be fantastic to enable sessions to be rolled out in Pocklington by hosting a session here.

"Our studio is the perfect space for a dance workshop like this, so we would encourage anyone who feels they may benefit from this type of activity to come along.”

Elaine Harvey, senior lecturer in dance at York St John University, will lead the September 26 session. "Taking part in dance activities has been shown to have several psychological and physiological benefits, including stress reduction, encouraging social interaction, maximising cognitive function, and improving balance and overall fitness.

"While all of this is true, the session is not about treating symptoms but, rather, a chance to dance, play and feel good in one’s own body. No prior dance experience is necessary, just a willingness to give it a go."

The session is open to all, regardless of ability, including those who may wish to remain seated throughout. No dance partner is required. Tea and coffee will be served afterwards, offering an opportunity for people to socialise.

The session is free of charge but booking is essential. To book a place or to find out more, call the box office on 01759 301547.

Meanwhile, in a year when Pocklington Arts Centre has achieved a record-breaking 26 sold-out shows, the venue is in the running for a Yorkshire Gig Guide Grassroots Awards.

The arts centre was shortlisted in the Yorkshire Outstanding Large Live Venue category after a public vote has now made it into the top five, up against the Brudenell Social Club in Leeds, The Underground in Bradford, The Leadmill in Sheffield and the Hebden Bridge Trades Club for the top title.

"We're thrilled to have been named as a top five nominee; we hosted the awards last year, so to actually become a finalist this year is a real honour, especially in the face of such strong competition. We would like to say a big thank-you to everyone who voted for us, helping us get to this stage.”

The awards ceremony will take place in Mexborough on Sunday, October 7, with 13 categories covering festivals, music clubs, artists and songwriters and sound engineers from across Yorkshire.