A MUCH appreciated community service that makes such a huge difference to people's lives is looking for more volunteers.

Tavistock Area Support Services (TASS) is looking for people of all ages to join its Befriending Service.

If you could spare two hours a week to visit a lonely, elderly person it would help make their life more interesting and enjoyable.

TASS is looking for friendly, caring volunteers with a wide variety of interests and experience to join them, so it can help more elderly people in urgent need.

Starting on Tuesday, April 21 it has six, two hour weekly volunteers' training sessions which take place at The Anchorage Centre, Tavistock.

Cathy Hipsey, a TASS befriending worker, told the Times: 'We welcome people of all ages and interest to volunteer with us as a TASS Befriender.

'Both men and women can make a valuable contribution to the service we offer.

'We try to match volunteers with clients who share interests, so that the relationship built is of value to both.

'Recently there have been articles in the media about the 'Campaign To End Loneliness'.

'At TASS we receive referrals from both health and social service professionals as well as family members to support people who are often isolated in their own homes as a result of poor mobility and geographical location.

'In March we launched 'The Voice That makes a Difference'.

'This allows volunteers to make regular phone calls to those who are on the waiting list for a Befriender.

'They are not forgotten and if they require any help the appropriate support can be organised.'

The area covered includes the parishes of Buckland Monachorum, Yelverton, Walkhampton, Horrabridge, Bere Alston and Bere Ferrers, Milton Abbot, Lamerton, Lifton, Lydford and stretches out to Princetown, as well as Tavistock and Whitchurch.

If you are interested in joining the training sessions contact TASS on 01822 616958 or 01822 610942 and ask to speak to Ann or Cathy.

For more information about the befriending scheme and other community help and support available at TASS, please go to the charity's website at http://www.tasstavistock.org.uk">www.tasstavistock.org.uk