THE elderly in Bury who feel isolated and want to make new friends are being invited to tea parties run by a charity.

Contact the Elderly is encouraging older people who live alone and have little outside contact to attend the group. The next meeting is on Sunday, May 4.

The first party was held at St John’s Church in Bircle.

Susan Whitehead, group co-ordinator for the organisation, said: “The Bircle Tea Parties got off to a fantastic start last month and we’re really excited about hosting the second Contact the Elderly tea party. We’re asking residents to think about people they know who would really benefit from the opportunity to socialise and enjoy company on a Sunday afternoon, often the loneliest time of the week for older people.

“We found that by the time the first tea party was over, solid friendships had been formed and people were really enjoying themselves.

“This is exactly what we’re trying to achieve and the groups really do change people’s lives for the better.”

At the monthly group, hosts take it in turn to welcome guests, and volunteer drivers are able ferry guests to and from the tea party.

For more information, call Gwen Lightfoot on 01925 728 969 or email gwen.lightfoot@contact-the-elderly.org.uk