THE Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has added another string to its bow after being shortlisted for the national Dementia Friendly Awards.

On behalf of the BSO, spokeswoman Esme James told the Echo: "We are delighted that for the second year in a row, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s ground-breaking work in the community engaging people living with dementia, has been recognised as they are shortlisted as Dementia Friendly Organisation of the Year."

The awards are organised by the Alzheimer’s Society to celebrate the work of individuals, organisations, projects and partnerships in creating dementia-friendly communities around the UK during the last 12 months.

A fundamental part of the BSO's mission is to work beyond the concert hall, and BSO Participate offers people across the region the opportunity to experience music through five specially tailored and distinct strands of activity.

BSO’s Boost focusses on health and wellbeing through music helping people living with dementia, and their carers, in range of different settings.

One of these projects is Music for a While that delivers workshops and performances to people living with dementia in acute hospital settings.

The Cake Concerts are another project run by Boost to improve the lives of those living with dementia.

They allow those living with dementia the opportunity to enjoy a classical music concert with a slice of cake in a relaxed and accessible setting.

n Winners of the 2017 Dementia Friendly Awards will be announced at an awards ceremony on November 29 at London.