THE power of music is being harnessed to help promote a campaign to bring dementia-friendly facilities to the Royal Bolton Hospital.

A special Dementia Ball is taking place this April to fundraise and spread the word for our donate £1 for Dementia campaign.

The appeal – launched last June in partnership with Bolton NHS Charitable Fund – aims to raise £200,000 to pay for dementia-friendly facilities at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

On Friday, April 22, guests are being invited to don their gladrags for a Dance The the Decades Ball being hosted by the charitable trust at the Bolton Whites Hotel.

The evening of music and entertainment will all be in aid of the good cause, with the message of helping to improve the lives of dementia sufferers through understanding and improved facilities at the heart of the night.

Andy Lee, charitable fundraiser, said: "Music can play a major part in provoking memories for someone who has dementia. We wanted to highlight the different aspects of the condition and how it can affect anyone born in any decade, hence the name Dancing through the Decades.

"It is two fold, to raise funds towards our £200,000 target and to raise awareness of dementia conditions. We hope the ball will help us do both. It will be a great night."

Ticket prices start at £40 for the evening which starts at 6.45pm, with a drinks reception followed by a three course dinner, evening entertainment, raffle and disco featuring music from throughout the decades.

To find out more or book email andy.lee@boltonft.nhs.uk or victoria.lomas@boltonft.nhs.uk.

The campaign is urging families, schools, businesses and groups across Bolton are being urged to donate at least £1 to the appeal.

To donate to the campaign go to www.boltonft.nhs.uk/get-involved/charitable-giving/ or send a cheque, made out to Bolton NHS Charitable Fund, to Charitable Funds Department, Dowling House, Royal Bolton Hospital, Minerva Road, Bolton, BL4 0JR.

Businesses, schools or groups who want the giant £1 to visit their event should email andy.lee@boltonft.nhs.uk

For more information about Bolton NHS Charitable Fund go to boltonft.nhs.uk/get-involved/charitable-giving/, search Bolton NHS Charitable Fund on Facebook or follow @boltonnhsft on Twitter.