CAN you spare a couple of hours a week to help make life happier and more interesting for a lonely elderly person?

Tavistock Area Support Service's (TASS) Befriending service has proven to be both popular and successful in the two years it has been running. The service is now looking to recruit new members.

A six-session training programme will begin on April 24 and the charity is looking to recruit 10 to 12 local people interested in enabling others to enjoy life.

Men and women are needed of all ages, with a wide range of interests and experience.

The charity is seeking people who are retired, unemployed, a student, carer, someone unable to work through disability, or parent who has time to spare while their children are at school — anyone who has some time and commitment to give.

Some clients only want someone to pop in for a cup of tea and a chat, others want to go shopping, visit the pub, go to the cinema or go for a walk or swim.

Sometimes a befriender will help them to join a local social group or take up an old or new hobby.

Befrienders are provided with free training and have regular ongoing support with what they are doing.

Everyone will have a Criminal Records Bureau check before they begin their voluntary work.

Anyone who would like to improve the quality of an older person's life, contact TASS on 01822 616958 for an application form.