A MUM-of-four is on a mission to get Radcliffe’s elderly residents back into the community.

Cherella Young is behind new social group Friendly Faces, which has gained legions of supporters just days after being set up.

The 32-year-old, of Red Bank Road, was inspired to start up the group after encountering many lonely and isolated pensioners in her job selling mobility equipment.

After posting her idea on Facebook, she has since received the support of other community organisations including Radcliffe Borough FC, the ROC Centre, and Radcliffe Carnival.

She said: “Almost everyone I speak to for my job that is over the age of 75 seems to be so lonely and isolated.

“A lot of the time I will be the only person they speak to all day.

“That got me thinking and wishing that I could do something about it. We are all about trying to get people out of the house and feeling like a part of the community again.

“I spoke to one man at the bus stop the other day and he was so excited about there being new activities like this that he could be involved in.

“This is something I’m really passionate about and hopefully the interest we’ve had so far can will keep going and the group can really take off.”

The group held a preliminary meeting last week and are planning activities such as dog walking, bingo, tea parties, and walking football.

An afternoon tea will be held at the football club, which has offered to host all of their events, from 2pm to 4pm on Wednesday September 9.

Ms Young added: “The organisation has gone really well so far. A lot of people turned up to our meeting last week and came armed with plenty of ideas.

“I have been really overwhelmed by the response, both from people who want to attend whatever events we can arrange and from local groups who are willing to support us and volunteer their help.

“I really want to thank Radcliffe Borough FC. They have been really supportive and their generosity has been incredible.”

For more information about Friendly Faces or to volunteer: contact Cherella on 07930490816 or email friendlyfaces942@gmail.com