ALTON’S Contact the Elderly group celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special tea and a plea from the organisers for more volunteers to get involved in hosting and driving for monthly get-togethers.

Run by Annette Blackman, with the help of volunteers, including members of the Alton Lions and Rotary, the Alton group is part of a national charity that aims to assist older people who, due to mobility problems or restricted eyesight, are unable to venture out with ease and can feel isolated, especially at weekends.

A tea party is arranged once a month on a Sunday so that a small group of elderly people can meet for tea, sandwiches and a chat.

Annetten said: “We have a faithful band of volunteers who either open up their homes once a year to host a tea party or provide transport to and from the venues. Unfortunately, we have lost a few of our volunteers in recent months and we are anxious to recruit more people to ensure that the tea parties can continue to take place.”

According to Annette, drivers are needed to pick guests up in time to ensure their arrival at the tea party venue at 3pm and then to take them home again at 5pm.

She said: “If drivers can stay for the tea party itself, so much the better, as this provides an opportunity to chat and get to know our elderly guests. If you could spare a few hours once or twice a year, I would love to hear from you. I can guarantee that you will enjoy yourself.

“Alternatively you might like to volunteer to host a tea party, and provide tea and sandwiches for five or six elderly guests. Easy access to your home and a downstairs toilet are important so, of course, is enjoyment of conversation and a large teapot!

“ If you might be prepared to host for us once a year, I would be delighted to hear from you.”

The guests love attending Contact the Elderly tea parties. One of the guests at a Sunday afternoon tea, hosted by Alton Lion David Warner and his wife, Chris, said: “We thoroughly enjoy ourselves and the hosts are fantastic. I love the chat and friendly discussions.”

Annette Blackman can be contacted on 01420 543219.