THE first anniversary of Swindon's Contact the Elderly group was celebrated in style.

Ten members enjoyed a tea party hosted by Sue and Mike Maine, at their home in Chiseldon.

Roger Mepstead entertained on the keyboard and a tea included a special cake donated by British Gas and made by Liz Haran of Bluebell Catering.

Contact the Elderly, founded in 1965, now has 229 groups all over England, Scotland and Wales.

Each group has a voluntary organiser, drivers and hostesses who provide a monthly treat for between eight and 12 older folk.

Special guest, Contact's national director, Monica Hartwell, said: "These monthly Sunday afternoon outings, with transport and tea provided, can be an absolute lifeline for an elderly person whose social contact is limited by health or mobility problems."

Anyone interested in volunteering to help Contact the Elderly, as a driver once a month or a host, once a year, should phone Swindon 853236.