PATIENTS and visitors at two Gwent hospitals are in line for some musical entertainment during the autumn – if suitable talent can be found.

Garth (Gwent Arts in Health), a charity working with Aneurin Bevan Health Board on an ongoing programme of art projects in the area’s hospitals, is looking for local musicians who would like the opportunity to perform in a hospital setting.

The charity aims to help realise the potential of the arts in promoting health and wellbeing.

The aim is to bring live music sessions once a month to the Royal Gwent and St Woolos Hospitals in outpatient departments, and for patients and visitors on a ward at the latter – and, if successful, a festival will be developed to take place next year.

The programme is backed by a community grant awarded through Newport city council’s arts development team, and Garth’s arts development officer Sarah Goodey said it was a valuable contribution gratefully received.

“The grant will enable us to bring more music into the hospitals. In previous years, this scheme has been appreciated by patients and staff alike,” she said.

Previous programmes of live music have proved a hit with patients and staff, with harpists and violinists among the most popular.

● Musicians interested in exploring the possibility of performing in a hospital environment, can call Sarah Goodey on 01633 234517, e-mail sarah.goodey@wales.

nhs.uk Garth also has a website at garth.org.uk