Dorchester Arts has launched three creative classes to help isolation in Sherborne.

Building on the legacy of Sherborne's Arts Link, it is offering three creative courses for the Sherborne community over the next few months, designed to address isolation and physical challenges in a creative and fun way. Designed to be fun and affordable, the classes also offer an important social element too.

Art for Memory is designed for people experiencing early stages of memory loss. run by an experienced tutor and support worker, new creative skills are explored each week, including different methods of printmaking, watercolour painting, clay work and collage.

Art for Parents is a free class that provides art and craft sessions for any parent or carer of primary age children who are experiencing difficulties and challenges in their lives, offering a time out for parents and opportunity to be creative and have fun, whilst the group itself helps provide support and friendship. Described as a 'little oasis of calm in our hectic lives of parenthood'.

Parkinson's Dance is fun class with therapeutic benefits and movement specifically designed for those living with Parkinson's. it helps to support balance, movement, voice and independence, taught by two trained specialists with seated or standing movement options on offer. The classes are a fantastic opportunity for people and their carers as they live with the challenges caused by Parkinson's.

Thanks to support from the National Lottery Community Fund, the classes are free, although a £4 donation is welcome. 

A spokesman said: "They are a great way to meet new people and have fun - with tea and biscuits too."

Art for Memory takes place on Tuesdays from 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm at Small Hall, Digby Hall.

Arts for Parents takes place on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 11.30am at The Studio, Digby Hall.

Parkinson's Dance takes place on Thursdays from 2pm to 4.30pm at Tinneys Lane Youth Club.