A SPECIAL project using art and music to give those with dementia help with dealing with the rigours of the condition has had two good weeks at Lochgelly Centre.

Emma Ainslie and John Phillips have held two sessions already, at the Centre recording studio on Friday afternoons, and they have four to go.

Already a number of people with dementia have taken part, some with the art aspect, some with the music, and others with both, and as Emma stressed: "It is all about making some music and making some art and really the reaction has been tremendous from those taking part."

With funding from Creative and Unlimited Scotland, artist Emma and musician John will have Friday sessions at the Centre between 1pm and 4.30pm up to March 13 and Emma went on: "It is all about people with dementia and their carers coming along and having a go at creating some artwork or an audio piece and enjoying themselves.

"Those who want to have a go at the art side can paint or draw while the music side of things provides the chance to play some instruments and do some jamming.

"We also encourage people wanting to take part to bring along some pictures with them and we can chat about them."

The theme for the project is called 'Home' and the duo are committed to helping everyone taking part have a very enjoyable experience.

John and Emma created the programme some years back drawing on their experience as front line carers which runs back two decades and Emma stressed that the sessions are led by those taking part.

The couple have taken the project into care homes and found the reaction totally inspiring and they feel that the Lochgelly project, which will be repeated in the summer, will make its mark.

They are also creating an audio visual piece of craftwork which will feature the people at the Lochgelly sessions and will be displayed at the Centre in April.