A new project has been launched by the NHS in North Cumbria that will bring live music to hospital wards.

The council has given North Cumbria Hospitals NHS Charity £3,625 to support the Trust’s Music Medicine project.

The impact of music on patients' health and wellbeing on the wards has been extensively researched.

It is said to help people suffering with dementia to regain memories and lower blood pressure.

Clare Warwick, charity fundraising lead at NCIC, said: "We are delighted that they have been able to support this additional service to enhance the experience of our patients and help make NCIC a great place to work.

"We are excited to launch the project next month on our Renal Ward at the Cumberland Infirmary.

"We are hoping long term to roll the project out to different wards and across NCIC."

Music Medicine will be working with a highly experienced musician who is also a Music Therapist from BlueJam Arts to make the project happen.

Music can also help people engage in conversation or get involved in the music making themselves.

Councillor Cyril Weber, chair of Cumbria County Council’s Local Committee for Carlisle, said: "I am delighted that Carlisle Local Committee have been able to support NHS Charities with the pilot to bring Music Medicine into the local hospitals."