A WINCHESTER charity has joined forces with Hampshire County Council to combat loneliness among older people.

Brendoncare has launched a range of new clubs across the county to help with the reported rising number of incidents of isolated living, giving elderly people the opportunity to meet like-minded people and take part in activities.

The charity's goal for 2015 is to open a series of club meetings at weekends across a number of venues.

Head of clubs service Edwin Ingleton said: “Sadly, for many older people, the weekend is often the loneliest time of the week. In a growing number of cases, older people may not have friends or family around them, and a social club is the only way to break the cycle of loneliness that can be so debilitating to their well-being.”

In Winchester, the new Saturday club has been launched in Badger Farm and Weeke - where a number of similar activities are already run.

Saturday clubs have also started in Fareham, Farnborough and as far as Dorset.

One of its regular members, 75-year-old Lorna, said: “I got an invitation to Brendoncare's club after I'd had a heart attack and a stroke, and lost most of my sight. Through the club, I've been able to meet many more people, and have really enjoyed all of the meetings so far.”

The club runs from 2-4pm, and sessions cost £2.50.

For more information contact the support team on 01962 857099 or visit brendoncare.org.uk.