THE Beacon is taking a step back in time to the glory days of dance halls for a waltz with dementia patients.

Together with Alzheimer Scotland, the Greenock arts centre is hosting dementia-friendly social dances and afternoon teas.

At their first event they invited along some Lindy Hoppers along with a live band to help dancers find their feet.

Organisers hope to recreate the magic of the music and dance in the minds of those affected by the cruel illness.

Kate Stevens, the Beacon's creative learning co-ordinator, said: "We have run hugely successful classes for people with Parkinson';s along with Scottish Ballet.

"We have a beautiful space here and we thought it would be perfect for a social dance.

"We want the whole family to come along and enjoy an afternoon of dance.

"We will have people at the start to go through some dancing.

"Dancing and music are so important to help bring people together."

Alzheimer Scotland's Inverclyde branch were on hand to show their support for another event in a local community which is fast becoming dementia-friendly.

The local branch is already involved in the football memories project with Morton and links up with many community groups and churches.

Alzheimer Scotland community events organiser Megan McGibbon, based in the Nicol Street day care centre, said: "The social dances are a great idea.

"It is brilliant to link up with the Beacon."

The Beacon's dementia friendly tea dances are for all the family, with kids welcome, and under eights go free.

They take place once a month in the Beacon, with the next on February 13 with a quick class from 1 to 1.30pm followed by dancing from 1.30 to 2pm and then some tea and cake.

Tickets cost £6 for the whole afternoon.

To find out more call Alzheimer Scotland on 261100 or The Beacon on 723723.