A music-listening group in Bury has become so popular that it is having to relocate.

Musical Memories, which uses popular songs and tunes to help dementia sufferers rekindle old memories, will move its meetings from the Mosses Centre in Cecil Street, Bury, to The Manna House in Irwell Street from tomorrow.

The enforced move comes after 25 members joined the group, forcing organisers to find a bigger venue to accommodate the growing number.

The group, which has been in existence for around 12 months, is run alongside other dementia support groups by Crossroads Care Bury, a charity which aims to relieve the pressure on carers by providing practical support and services.

Its activities include listening to popular music from different eras and watching musicians perform live.

Alan Robinson, finance manager of Crossroads Care Bury and co-ordinator of the group, said: “It’s fantastic to see the impact these sessions are having.

“We want to give our members an identity and make them feel part of society, not useless and alienated.

“People with memory loss are finding this group very beneficial. They have said how much they value having something to get them out of the house.”

Mr Robinson added: “It’s amazing what music can do for dementia sufferers.

“We have everything from Vera Lynn to Elton John and it’s having a positive impact.

“My mother-in-law has dementia and when we take her out in the car, she hears a song from her era and knows it within a few lines.”

In addition to the Bury group, there is a Musical Memories group in Radcliffe, which has 24 members and meets at Radcliffe United Reformed Church in Blackburn Street.

As of tomorrow, the Bury group will hold its weekly Friday sessions at The Manna House from 10.30am to noon.