A NEW social singing group is being expanded across Ryedale.

Ruth Hannah, a former teacher who lives in Huttons Ambo, set up Musical Memories after working for a number of years, both locally and abroad.

The charity Rural Action Yorkshire (RAY) has now teamed up with Ruth to run free "Happy Hour" social singing sessions in partnership with six community buildings across the district.

Musical Memories aims to reach out to everyone regardless of musical ability, mobility difficulties or physical limitations and in this way hopes to promote social inclusion, improve local connections and increase happiness and well-being.

Ruth said: "A Musical Memories ‘Happy Hour’ is for anyone, senior citizens, carers, neighbours, mums, dads and tots who wants to enjoy the opportunity to come together to sing some of the best-loved songs of the 20th century, chat and reminisce over a cuppa at a local community venue.

"Happy Hour is a social singing session for everyone to enjoy. You are sure to leave us with a smile on your face."

Each session lasts about 60 minutes, beginning with a short warm-up exercise, two 20 minutes singing sessions with accompaniment from guitar or piano with a ten-minute coffee break in between, and a final five minute 'farewell' song. There will also be time for people who attend the session to chat with one another and with members of the project team.

Songbooks, musical accompaniment on piano and guitar, and and a free hot drink will be provided.

Ruth added: "So if you enjoy singing in the shower, in the car or around the house this is the perfect session for you."

Musical Memories Happy Hour sessions are taking place at Middleton and Aislaby Village Hall, Helmsley Arts Centre, Weaverthorpe Village Hall, Mr Wilf’s Cafe, Pickering, Deansfield Court, Norton and villages in the North York Moors.

Leah Swain, chief officer of RAY, said: “We’re very pleased to be able to help bring these sessions to local Ryedale communities so everyone can benefit from the chance to sing together.

"We recognise the capability of music to stimulate the long-term memory and create that spark inside that can lead to a smile.”

For more information, go to ruralyorkshire.org.uk/project/ryedale-musical-memories