AS lockdown continues families across the borough have been coming up with lots of innovative ways to keep in touch.

And Thurrock schools have led the way by creating entertaining, funny videos that keep everyone in school communities in touch.

And one sideline might well be that creating funny videos and getting people to dance along could be good for your health - and particularly for older people.

And it is something that can continue well after lockdown is finished.

Dancing with your gran once lockdown is over will be good for her health - and deepens family ties, according to a new study.

Researchers found a 15 minute boogie once a week lifted grannies' spirits and strengthened the bond between grandparents and grandchildren.

The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, looked at how Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) affects the elderly and whether intergenerational relationships are enhanced as a result.

The researchers were keen to examine a low-cost method to treat issues commonly faced by an ageing population - such as limited mobility and depression.

And they chose dance as it is known to improve muscle strength, balance and endurance, improves anxiety and depression, and can aid dementia.

Sixteen dance movement therapists met with their grandmothers at home for three weekly free-form dance sessions lasting just 10 to 15 minutes.

Granddaughters were instructed to make eye contact and encourage playfulness and touch.

They were also told to mirror their grandmothers' movements and give them time and space to rest when needed.

The sessions were recorded and then analysed - along with personal diaries and interviews between the relatives.

Results showed dancing promoted positive feelings and boosted mood for grandmothers.

They reported an improved state of mind, happy memories and uplifted spirits.

And dancing shifted the granddaughters' attitude towards ageing and allowed them to process their relative's eventual death.

Both generations expressed gratitude and felt their bond was stronger after the sessions.

Study author Dr Einat Shuper Engelhard, of the University of Haifa in Israel, said: "The increase of the proportion of elderly in the population, along with the increase in the age group of adult grandchildren, necessitates creativity and innovation in providing diverse resources and support.

"With an activity as simple and accessible as free-form dancing, ageing populations can improve their physical and mental health and also connect with their loved ones."

Dr Shuper Engelhard is urging people to get jiving with their grandparents - but not during the Covid-19 outbreak. But of course you can film and send them a video.

As an example, we've posted this short excerpt from Treetops School's memorable video to Olly Murs' Dance with Me tonight. Thanks to Treetops teacher Owen Jefferies.

Why not have a go at making your own and sending it to you gran this weekend? Boogie on!