AN exciting new project linking sixth form students at Tavistock College with the Befriending Service at Tavistock Area Support Services has begun.

Nine students completed a training programme to prepare them to undertake regular weekly visits to local elderly and disabled people.

Each student has been allocated a 'buddy', who is one of TASS's experienced befrienders, to provide support.

These young people will be volunteering in their free time and will visit lonely or isolated people to spend time on various activities.

These may include a cup of tea and chat, reading letters, newspapers and books to the visually impaired, helping people continue with a hobby such as knitting or photography, playing cards or board games or helping with modern technology. The project aims to make the elderly person's life more interesting and enjoyable.

The young people are enthusiastic to make an older friend and to share their stories and experiences — giving an example of the willingness to make a positive contribution to their local community.