A SINGER from Wellington has completed the first part of a challenge that he has embarked on.

Ian Jones has been fundraising to bring back memories for people with dementia across the UK, through the medium of music.

He has been singing in homes around Wellington, Taunton, Williton and Ilminster.

But he wants to take his passion further afield and so is taking part in a number of different fundraising ventures.

The first was a 300-mile May, which saw the 28-year-old walk 10 miles a day for 30 days in May.

Ian said: “It has been a lot of fun. Especially after getting over severe blistered feet on my first day walking to Creech St Michael from Buckwell.

“I have been joined by a troop of supporters who have walked with me and kept me going with their wonderful energy and support.

“I have so far raised an amazing £192.00 from my walk, which has blown me away. I never thought I’d have this much support.”

Ian said he enjoys singing to residents as he connects with them.

He added: “I worked in care with those with dementia for seven years, but I wanted to do more as I didn’t really get the time to spend with them that I would like to.

“When I sing to the residents, I can con- nect with each of them; it’s wonderful to be able to see people who may not be able to string a sentence together empowered by music, and being able to sing a whole song from start to finish.

“I get really good feedback and just want to give other people living with dementia the same experiences as I can give here.

“I want to empower them to bring back those memories, it’s very rewarding.

“I’m hoping to raise enough money to embark on a tour around various counties.”

Ian’s next fundraiser will be a concert at the Beambridge Inn in Sampford Arundel – All Vocal Jazz, with songs from the 1930s, 40s and 50s, and some modern surprises.

The concert starts at 7.30pm on Sunday, July 17. To purchase tickets, call 01823 660422 or visit the Beambridge Inn.

All tickets are £8.50 and all of the money raised will go on the reminiscence musical tour Ian hopes to embark on next year.

If you’d like to donate to Ian, visit crowd funding.justgiving.com/Ian-jones-2.