A POET treated older people at a day centre to a lyrical reading of her work.

Residents at the Grundy Day Centre, in Fishpool, enjoyed a selection of poetry from Alison Hartley.

One rhyme featured a child asking their grandparent what they used to do for fun when they were young, before mobile phones, tablets and the internet.

Ainsworth-based Ms Hartley read aloud her poems to both staff and residents at the centre.

The wordsmith writes poems as a hobby, mainly for family members and friends, but also for Christ Church Ainsworth's church magazine, which she edits.

Her work covers subjects such as ageing, nature, animals and war.

This latest display of her work took place to mark Poetry at Work Day, and was part of a wide range of activities organised by Bury-based social care provider Persona.

The annual celebration of poetry encourages people to read and share their favourite poems at work.

Kat Sowden, managing director of Persona Care and Support, said: "Alison is a really talented poet whose work deserves to reach a wider audience. We were delighted she was able to pop into Grundy for Poetry at Work Day to treat customers and staff to some of her poems.

"It’s really important that those using our day services have access to a range of activities which promote good mental and physical health. Whether it's taking part in sporting sessions or listening to poems, our programme is designed to give people access to experiences which are stimulating, sociable and fun.

"The poetry reading was well received by customers and staff who said it really brightened up their day."

Grundy Day Centre, in Wellington Road, is one of 12 day centres run by Persona.

As of next week, the care provider will be running a new programme of physical activities, courtesy of Bury sports firm Shooting Stars.