COMBATTING loneliness and the threat it poses to residents has become a focus of the Sid Valley Rotary Club.

Mixing with others, meeting friends, taking part in social activities and helping with charity work all make a huge difference to residents’ overall health, recent research has shown.

But the problem is difficult to overcome for many - especially the elderly, those who live alone and no longer drive.

Members of Sid Valley Rotary Club, who are aware of the issue, more than a year ago began holding a monthly Tea and Talk afternoon at All Saints Church Hall for anyone who feels they would like to meet others, have a cup of tea and a chat and get out of the house.

There is also a quiz for those who choose to take part and sometimes a speaker or a musician.

Above all, rotarians are there to chat and make their visitors feel welcome, says president Judith Stephens.

“If you are feeling that the winter has been long and a bit lonely and would enjoy having a chat to others and to our rotary members, do come along,” she added.

The next Tea and Talk afternoon is on Wednesday (March 2) from 2pm to 4pm and will a Beetle Drive.

Anyone with a transport problem can contact Geoff or Beverley Thomas on 01395 516375.