An Ayr singer is preparing to take to the stage again after struggling with a lack of confidence as a result of menopause.

Christine Dowson took a step back from performing after her symptoms caused her to doubt herself .

She is now getting ready to make a return to singing after engaging with a programme run by the Prince’s Foundation, owned by Prince Charles.

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The singer and her husband travelled with their cabaret show, taking it to the Caribbean on a cruise ship.

Christine always aspired to perform in such an environment, but was forced to give up her dream job as a result of her confidence struggles.

She said: “I realise now that at that point in my life I was peri-menopausal, full of anxiety and doubting myself.

“I began to feel like an alien on the stage and it became a huge issue to the extent that, when we were offered the chance to extend our contract, I just couldn’t do it, despite it having been all I’d wished for.”

Christine was introduced to the Foundation’s Integrated Health and Wellbeing programme by her GP.

There is a section of the programme dedicated to helping women experiencing the effects of menopause.

Shiona Johnston, health and wellbeing co-ordinator at the Prince’s Foundation, said: “We have cultivated an integrated approach to menopause, looking at the physical, emotional and psychological changes that happen during this time in a woman’s life.

“We offer advice around a range of different options, including nutrition, physical activity and therapeutic techniques.”

Free places on the programme are available to anyone registered with a GP in Ayrshire and Arran.

Sessions are usually run at Dumfries House in Cumnock, but have moved online due to COVID restrictions.

Christine said: “When you engage in an online health programme, you don’t know what to expect, and you’re nervous and self-conscious.

“It was so educational and gave an important insight into what’s happening to your body.”

Shiona added: “Christine is, with the help of our approach, feeling better, and we hope her story inspires others struggling with the symptoms of menopause to find out more about our programme, which next runs in January.”