A PORTLAND singing group hit all the right notes as it took part in a three-hour sing-a-thon.

The Singing for the Brain group, run by the Alzheimer’s Society, took nearly 30 ladies to Tesco, Easton, to perform.

The group, which meets fortnightly, offers relaxed and fun sessions for people with dementia and their carers.

Melanie Gale, group facilitator for Alzheimer’s Society, said: “It was really good, ridiculously busy. We had to rein in the people a bit but it was great.

“Our songs ranged from World War One songs to more fun songs like ‘Heads, shoulders, knees and toes’, as well as some of the old musical songs.

Melanie said the group received a positive response from shoppers, particularly the younger generation.

She said: “They were really surprised to see us I think but happy. A lot of the children come over because we were giving out balloons but they came and danced as well.

“We raised over £154 which was really good because it wasn’t actually a fundraiser. It was to promote our group, really.

“We are thinking as it was so successful we might make it an annual thing. We really did take over. I don’t think they were expecting quite so many people turning up.”

Melanie expressed her thanks to staff at the store, including John Stonehouse, Lorraine Tinson and Debbie Lindoe.

Debbie, community champion at Tesco Portland, said: “I had a letter from Melanie to ask me if it was possible. I had been along to the group a couple of times.

“Tesco wants to work as much as we possibly can with the community and work with as many people as we can.

“It went very well. A lot more turned out than expected and there was a lot of interest.”

A Christmas event will take place at Community 2000 Hall on Wednesday, December 10 between 10am and 11.30am.

The Singing for the Brain group meets on alternative Wednesdays. If you have dementia or care for someone with dementia and would like to attend this service, call Dorset Alzheimer’s Society on 030012 31916 or you can send an email to dorset@alzheimers.org.uk