A music festival was held specially for care home residents and their loved ones officially debuted over the weekend.

Several musicians and entertainers took part in the ‘Grove Fest’ at Woodland Grove on Rectory Lane, Loughton.

Acts well-known within the district who were part of the line-up included One Man Banned, Dean Weedon and Sasha McIntosh and a Zen drumming performance.

The event was held as a chance to bring the community together, whilst raising money for two dementia charities.

“We support people with dementia every day here,” said festival organiser and Woodland Grove’s lifestyles manager, Eirlys Roff. “We know how vital music is to them so a festival seemed a perfect idea.

“Our residents who are living with the condition never seem to lose the joy of the sound or the memories songs from their past can bring.

“For those whose speech has left them, it gives them an opportunity to enjoy a connection with other people.”

92-year-old Chris Nickerson spent the afternoon dancing and singing, whilst thoroughly enjoying the festival.

“Music is one of the loves of my life,” she said. “It’s been amazing to have this at my home - it’s been terrific fun! I even got to perform with the drumming group.”

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In total, £185 was raised from the event which will go towards charities the Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK respectively.

Home manager, Hazel McGwyne, said: “Woodland Grove Music Festival has been a fantastic event, and a brilliant way for Eirlys and Kiera to kick off their fundraising.

“We’ve already had some great feedback from families who loved the day so who knows, it could become a regular event.”