EAST Lothian's MSP has enjoyed shaking maracas and dancing along as he took part in a scheme bringing together toddlers and the elderly.

Paul McLennan joined Boogie Beat at Haddington’s Florabank Care Home for an intergenerational boogie class.

The workshops, run by award-winning Boogie Beat Music & Movement Edinburgh, Mid & East Lothian, connects people from different generations by bringing children to care homes and day centres for a joint session.

Each session is centred on a theme, typically a nursery rhyme, which encourages participation and imagination through storytelling, playing and singing.

The children, residents and wider community benefit from the strong connections that are forged at each workshop.

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Mr McLennan described it as “heart-warming” taking part in the class.

He said: "I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the residents and children interacting together.

“It was an honour to see first-hand how special these sessions are.

"The session was fun and enriching for both the children and elderly residents, and was expertly organised so that both young and old left with memories they can cherish.”

Mairi Curle, who lives in Humbie, was happy to welcome along Mr McLennan, who is also a former leader of East Lothian Council.

She said: "I had the pleasure of explaining to Paul McLennan and his assistant Katie how much these monthly sessions mean to everyone involved.

“Over time, we've watched the children grow more confident in interacting with the residents, while the residents benefit from increased physical movement and social engagement.

"The energy in the room is always palpable as the residents light up when the children arrive, and we all explore traditional tales and songs together.

"Of course, no one is exempt from participation in our Boogie Beat sessions!

“I let Paul and Katie know they'd be shaking maracas and moving along with the rest of us. 

"Our intergenerational workshops encourage the elderly residents to stay active, even when movement can be challenging.”