Belly dancing, drumming and singing war songs help members of a new group fight against illness according to its leader.

The Alzheimer’s Society has started running two weekly sessions in Epping to stimulate the minds and bodies of people suffering from dementia.

Debbie Baker the group’s co-ordinator says that the range of activities have been proven to benefit people with the illness.

She said: “We do all sorts of things from bowling to skittles, dancing, singing songs and quizzes.

“It is cognitive stimulation therapy. We try to stimulate the mind to help with memory. When someone had dementia a part of the brain is impaired. What we are trying to do is bring new thoughts.

“There is a theme every week. Anyone with dementia can come along as long as they are able have mild to moderate dementia.”

Each Thursday at the United Reformed Church in Lindsey Street, Epping, the society runs two sessions with the help of volunteers.

Pamela Watson, 56, travels from Harlow to help out.

She said: “I love listening to their stories. People of any age can volunteer.

“The members really do get something out of it. They get to interact with other people and for some that it their only interaction in that week.”

The first weekly session begins at 10am and the second at 1pm although members are welcome to stay for both and have lunch with the volunteers.

To find out how to become a volunteer or join the group, contact debbie.baker@alzheimers.org.uk.