A dance teacher and nurse is starting classes for those with dementia after she was left so moved seeing how it benefited a lady who joined one of her classes.

Fee Jeanes, of fee Jeanes Ballet, had an enquiry a few weeks ago about the possibility of doing a class for a lady with dementia, followed by three similar more calls from carers.

Fee said: "I had a pupil who I taught eight years ago and her mum phoned me and asked if she could bring the lady she was looking after. So, Heather came along and it was the most moving class. She joined in with the silver swans and did the whole class and I thought, 'I'm going to do this'.

"It moved me so much. It was quite clear to me she had danced in her life, but she couldn't remember - but it was beautiful.

"This lady was gone in her own little world, dancing in her own space, and as I finished the class, she gave me the most beautiful curtsey and said, 'that made me feel like I was alive again, it's given me something to get up and do, I absolutely loved it'.

"I've done loads of dementia courses over the years. I can remember working on the ward and they painted all the doors and all the toilets red, because red is a very distinctive colour to someone with dementia. So, I've ordered some red ballet shoes."

Fee is starting the classes in September but people can join in with others before the new term and have a trial.

"We've got everybody covered," she added. "I've got a one-year-old, an 86-year-old and now I've got this, a lovely opening for people who have got not only dementia and Alzheimer's, but any special need that dance of any sort could help them.

"I'm insured to do it, I've worked with the elderly all my life through nursing and this is putting my love of elderly care and love of ballet together. I am so excited."

You can find out more and get in touch with Fee by emailing [email protected]