FOR people in their mid-70s upwards who would like to socialise and have a chat, there's an offer to pop round for tea in Coleford.

The Coleford group of Contact the Elderly has been successfully running for more than 10 years and was founded by David and Norah Sibbley.

They felt there was a need to help older members of the community who live on their own and were no longer able to get out and about easily themselves.

Norah has continued to be involved since David's death and there are now more than a dozen volunteer hosts and drivers who regularly prepare tea in their own homes to welcome guests throughout the year.

The group has vacancies for men and women who would be interested in joining contemporaries of 75 years plus for a chat and tea.

Anne Childs, group coordinator, says the Sunday afternoon sessions are interesting for everyone as the guests chat about everyday issues, reminisce about past times and talk about the wider issues of the day .

To learn more telephone her on 01594 834402.