A NEW exercise class has been launched in Keighley for people with dementia and their carers.

Sessions are at St Andrew's Church Hall on the third Friday of each month, from 1.30pm-2.45pm.

The next is on August 16.

Behind the venture is The Memory Tree, which has run regular meetings for people with dementia and their carers at the church hall since 2013.

The group has partnered with Discover Tai Chi for the initiative, which is backed by a Bradford Council Local Friendship Support Grant.

Classes provide gentle exercise routines which can be done seated or standing.

Helen Parsons, of Discover Tai Chi, says: "Caregivers can really benefit from doing tai chi with their loved ones who have dementia.

"Care-giving can be stressful and isolating so it's important to do things that are not just stress-busting, but also fun and social. Tai chi ticks all these boxes. It's gentle enough for people of any age or fitness level. Practicing tai chi together can bring caregivers and their loved ones closer, plus the calming effect can really lift people's mood."

For more about the classes or regular meetings of The Memory Tree, contact Elizabeth Anderson on 01274 583364 or visit thememorytree.org.uk