AFTER months of repair work the socialising organisation, Devon Social Group, has now been re-launched after a fire broke out in the group's Mary Tavy office.

Following a succession of problems such as the recession and an outbreak of Swine Flu within the team, the final setback occurred when a fire in the group's office caused the main computer to burn out, leaving the group with serious technical difficulties, but back-ups of work and a repair of a second computer saved much of the data. Three months on from the fire and after hard work from the team, Devon Social Group is back running as normal.

The group's organiser Cathy Haglington said: 'It's been almost like starting again. We had to order a new computer, get it installed, get the new software to work with the old printer, buy a new broadband router, learn to use the new software, upload all the old data, and then work around the clock to catch up with the backlog.

'It's been really hard work. You don't realise how much damage even a small fire can do. It's good to finally get back to normal.'

DSG offers a programme of social events, parties, activities and holidays which enables thousands of local people to find friends, improve social skills and be less lonely.

The group has launched an appeal to help pay for the new computer and to assist with the unpaid assistance they give to help people. Anyone who would like donate or find out more about the group please call 08456 121770 or visit its http://www.devonsocialgroup.com">www.devonsocialgroup.com website.