AN URGENT call has gone out to people to hold tea parties to bring isolated elderly people together.

Contact the Elderly aims to relieve the acute loneliness of older people, aged 75 and above, who live alone, by organising monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for small groups within local communities, providing a regular and vital friendship link.

It is now appealing for volunteers in the Bridgwater area to spare a few hours each month to help set up a local group.

To help, or if you know an older person who like to be a guest, contact Helen Ker, regional development officer, on 01225-873812 or email Helen.ker@contact-the-elderly.org.uk