OUR HOPPINESS IN CARE HOMES

Residents help make ale to lift mood

- DAN WARBURTON

CARE home residents are enjoying a brew lease of life by growing their own hops for making beer.

The Hoppiness Project is designed to "empower and stimulate" people who are struggling with dementia.

Organisers say those who have already taken part "improved their memory and boosted their mood afterwards".

Residents grow hop vines and harvest the cones for brewers - then get to drink the ale at a party.

The scheme builds on their knowledge of gardening and includes pub activities like singing and a brewery visit.