A DISCOVERY day showed more than 60 people a variety of activities and services that are available to the over-50s to combat loneliness.

The event, called Link Up With STIR, was held at Haslingden Community Link and was organised by Seniors Together In Rossendale (STIR), an over-50s forum.

Coun Barbara Ashworth, Chair of STIR, said: “This Haslingden event is the first in the area and we have had a great response.

“We will be holding another event in Bacup and, if we can find a suitable venue, we will be holding one in Rawtenstall.”

Friends Brenda Wilkinson and Caroline Thompson attended to see what was on offer.

Brenda said: “It has been good to meet people and to find out what is available in the Valley and other areas of Lancashire.

“I am surprised by how much is going on that we didn’t know about.”

Caroline keeps herself busy by holding a monthly coffee morning at Greenfield Gardens Community Centre in Haslingden and in its four years it has raised £8,000 for various charities.

She said: “It helps me to keep with it and keep active and we have at least 30 people attend every month.”

Anyone who would like to suggest a venue for the Rawtenstall event should call Barbara Ashworth on 01706 874644.