OLD and young met to share cups of tea, stories and laughter at a festive tea party in Fairford this week.

Members of volunteer befriending and support service People for You met at Fairford Community Centre on Friday to enjoy food, live music and comedy.

Co-ordinator Sue Black said she was delighted with the turnout. “Christmas can be a very lonely time of year for some people, so it’s lovely to see all these happy faces,” she added.

The service, which is run by Gloucestershire Rural Community Council, aims to provide support to isolated and vulnerable people living in Lechlade, Fairford, Tetbury, by pairing volunteers with those in need.

Mary Vizor from Fairford has been receiving visits from a volunteer for about a year. “She comes to visit every Thursday and it’s the highlight of my week,” said Mary. “She keeps me company and we get on like a house on fire.”

A total of 42 volunteers currently take part in the scheme, but due to a high demand, there are still 24 clients on the waiting list. For more information or to take part, visit www.grcc.org.uk/people-for-you